Music and Art Therapy

Music and art can reach people with dementia even in later stages; here is what research shows about benefits for mood and behavior, the difference between therapy and everyday activities, and simple ways to use music and art at home.

Last reviewed: October 2026

Many families have seen it happen: a person with dementia who rarely speaks suddenly sings every word of a hymn or a song from their teenage years. Or a restless parent settles down while painting. Music and art can reach people in ways words sometimes can't.

The Alzheimer's Association notes that music and art allow for self-expression and engagement, even after dementia has progressed. Even in the late stages, a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics from childhood.

Why music reaches people with dementia

Musical memories seem to be stored and processed across many parts of the brain, and some of these areas are relatively spared by Alzheimer's disease until later stages. Familiar music is also strongly tied to emotion, which often remains when other memories fade. That's why songs from someone's youth—often the teens and twenties—can bring back feelings, memories and even words.

Music therapy vs. everyday music

It helps to know the difference:

Music therapy is delivered by a board-certified music therapist who designs sessions for a person's needs and goals, often in nursing homes, hospitals or adult day programs. It can include singing, playing simple instruments, moving to music and listening.
Everyday music is what families and care staff can do anytime—playing favorite songs, singing together, dancing in the kitchen.

Both can be valuable.

What the research shows

The most rigorous summary is a 2025 Cochrane review, which looked at 30 randomized trials with 1,720 people with dementia, mostly living in care homes. Compared with usual care, it found that music-based therapy at the end of treatment:

Probably slightly improves depressive symptoms (moderate-certainty evidence)
May improve overall behavioral problems (low-certainty evidence)
Likely does not reduce agitation or aggression on its own (moderate-certainty evidence)
Showed no clear effect on emotional well-being, anxiety, social behavior or thinking skills

Benefits generally didn't last once sessions stopped (four weeks or more later). The takeaway: music can be a helpful, low-risk part of care—especially for mood—but it works best as an ongoing part of daily life rather than a short course.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) at NIH notes that music-based approaches are being studied for many conditions and that they are generally considered safe.

Art for expression and purpose

The Alzheimer's Association says art projects can create a sense of accomplishment and purpose, and give both the person and caregiver a chance for self-expression. Art doesn't depend on memory or words, so it can be satisfying even when conversation is hard.

Art therapy, led by a credentialed art therapist, uses painting, drawing, collage and other media to support emotional expression. Museums in many cities also offer special tours and art programs for people with dementia and their care partners.

Using music at home

The Alzheimer's Association suggests:

Choose familiar, enjoyable music. Let the person choose, if possible.
Avoid commercials, which can confuse. Use playlists, CDs or ad-free streaming.
Match the music to the mood you want. Calm music for winding down; upbeat songs from their youth to lift spirits.
Encourage movement—clapping, tapping, swaying or dancing.
Avoid overload. Turn off the TV, close windows and keep the volume comfortable.

More ideas:

Build a personal playlist. Ask family what music the person loved at ages 15 to 25, their wedding song, hymns or holiday favorites.
Use music for tough moments. Some caregivers play a calming song during bathing or before bed (see Bathing, Dressing and Grooming and Sundowning).
Sing instead of talk. Simple sung cues ("Time to wash our hands…") may be easier to follow.
Watch reactions. If a song brings sadness or agitation, switch to something else. Not every memory is a happy one.
Use headphones carefully. They can help in noisy places, but some people find them confusing or uncomfortable.

Art at home

The Alzheimer's Association recommends:

Keep it adult. Avoid projects that seem childish or demeaning.
Build in conversation. Encourage, reminisce, talk about what they're making.
Help them start. Sometimes beginning the brushstroke together is enough.
Use safe materials—nontoxic paints, no sharp tools.
Allow plenty of time. It doesn't have to be finished in one sitting.

Good options include watercolor painting, coloring detailed patterns, clay or play dough, flower arranging, collage from magazine pictures, or simple crafts tied to old hobbies like knitting or woodworking.

Finding programs

Ask adult day centers, memory care communities and senior centers about music or art programs.
Look for local memory cafés, choirs or "Alzheimer's choruses" for people with dementia and care partners.
Ask your doctor or local Alzheimer's Association chapter about music therapists in your area.

A gentle reminder

Music and art aren't cures, and they won't work every time. But they can bring moments of joy, calm and connection—for the person with dementia and for you. Those moments matter.

Sources

Not medical advice. This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual. Talk with a doctor about your situation.

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We may answer common questions in future updates (we won't share your name). We can't give personal medical advice; for urgent help call the Alzheimer's Association Helpline at 800-272-3900.

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