Effects of Functional Exercises With Culturally Familiar Music in Mild Dementia

The Effects of Functional Exercises Performed With Culturally Familiar Music on Daily Living Activities, Balance Level, and Quality of Life in Individuals With Mild Dementia

This study aims to explore how a functional exercise program, with or without culturally familiar music, affects physical function and quality of life in older adults with mild dementia. Participants were divided into two groups: one group performed functional exercises alone, while the other group performed the same exercises accompanied by music. The program was conducted twice a week for 8 weeks, with each session lasting 60 minutes. Researchers evaluated changes in daily living activities, balance level and quality of life before and after the program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• The inclusion criteria for participants were: voluntary participation, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores between 17 and 24 indicating mild dementia
• Residing in a nursing home, being over 65 years of age,
• Having no problems understanding verbal commands.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of severe and untreated hearing impairment that would prevent them from listening to music
• A history of musculoskeletal injury or neurological deficit that could affect exercise performance
• A psychiatric disorder that could interfere with exercise compliance
• Inability to cooperate during tests and exercises, and failure to attend two consecutive sessions.