Assessing music-related memory in people with dementia: a scoping review

There are various type of music-related memory and different aspects of impairment caused by dementia. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify methods and map key concepts in assessing music-related memory in people with dementia.

The review was conducted using the five steps in the framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. Databases and other sources were searched to identify relevant studies, and data selection and abstraction were performed.

A total of 35 studies that met the selection criteria were finally selected and analysed. We confirmed that the assessment of music-related memory can be systematically classified as assessing short-term or long-term memory, explicit or implicit memory, depending on the type of memory. Regarding the key concept of assessing music-related memory, we mapped a conceptual framework for the interrelationships between music and memory from a person-centered perspective.

Comprehensive information on music-related memory obtained through the assessment will be helpful for a holistic understanding of the person with dementia. In addition, it will provide meaningful information for specific planning and application of musical experiences that can be effectively used in music therapy. Further research is needed to establish the reliability and validity of the assessment.