Research & Initiatives
PAL's studies focus on innovative interventions to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) and their caregivers. These studies explore the therapeutic potential of music and social engagement to address the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
Projects
Visually Assisted Music Learning (VAMML)
The Visually Assisted Music Learning Study is a group music intervention program designed to reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms in older adults with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) living in memory care facilities. This group-based social engagement intervention uses specially curated music playlists with visual stimuli to promote relaxation and encourage social interaction. The goal of the study is to improve the quality of life for residents with ADRD.
Music to Support Engagement and Resilience (MUSER)
The MUSER study evaluates an Android music app designed to provide personalized music for individuals with dementia living at home. The objective is to assess the short-term impact of music sessions on the mental health of caregivers, focusing on symptoms such as anxiety. This study aims to evaluate the effects of music on the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in patients, with the hope of reducing issues like agitation and aggression.
Read2Connect
Read2Connect is a study that evaluates a social reading program designed to reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals living with dementia. This intervention includes a group reading session aimed at promoting social engagement through resident-to-resident interactions. The study seeks to assess how social reading can reduce symptoms like agitation in individuals living with dementia, as well as how it may improve the mental health of their caregivers.
