Ellie Wang

How does music therapy improve cognitive function in patients affected by Stroke, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's?

Started May 22, 2024

Abstract or project description

Billions of people are currently affected by neurological conditions around the world. Research has shown the possible benefits of music therapy on a variety of conditions, and music has been used for its therapeutic benefits for hundreds of years. However, there is still more to be examined regarding the cognitive advantages of music for neurological conditions. Music processing involves both hemispheres of the brain, so it can have the ability to affect and improve many different functions in the cortex. As such, this paper aims to provide information on how music can improve function in neurologically impaired patients and increase awareness of music therapy as a beneficial treatment option. Utilizing peer-reviewed journals from research databases, this paper will investigate how music therapy can aid in the rehabilitation of patients, namely the improvement of motor skills and speech. This research will compile and use previous information to analyze how music plays a role in rehabilitation of conditions: Stroke, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. The purpose of this paper is to increase awareness of music therapy as a beneficial treatment option, and to emphasize its ability to improve quality of life to many people around the world.