Musical Theatre and Drama Therapy: A Duet for Dementia

Abstract

The purpose of this capstone thesis is to explore the potential of developing musically informed dramatic interventions that directly support the quality of life (QoL) for patients with Alzheimer\u27s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Alzheimer\u27s disease (AD) is progressive, causing people to lose their memory and thinking skills and eventually carrying out simple daily tasks. Researchers estimate that more than 5 million Americans live with AD today. There is no known cure for dementia, but treatment care has evolved into person-centered, non-pharmacological approaches often involving expressive art interventions to channel a patient\u27s creative strengths. Research has become increasingly valuable in the field of drama therapy in recent years. However, more research is needed to provide rigorous studies that add to and strengthen the field\u27s understanding of drama therapy practices. A gap in this research is adaptable, approachable, and accommodating dramatic interventions for this population. Through the writer\u27s evaluation of research and experience at a nursing care facility, the data suggests a collaborative relationship between drama and music therapy is possible and can help create therapeutic musical theatre interventions. Furthermore, musically informed drama therapy, once developing structured methodology and conducting future empirical research, has the potential to create an entry point for patients with ADRD in accessing their imagination and creativity