Background:

The rising living standard leads to an increase in age of population. With higher age the risk to develop dementia increase. In 2050 approximately 250 000 people in Sweden are likely to be affected by the dementia. Cognitive failure and irrational behavior is large problem that challenge the care and many of the patients are pharmacological treated.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to describe the music's effects on people with dementia.

Method:

A systematic literature review study based on twelve articles, both qualitative and quantitative.

Results:

Four themes developed and were named, behavior, quality of life, cognitive functions and interactions between caregivers and caretakers. Music's effects can advantageously to break aggressive and agitated behavior as well as other behavioral and psychological symptoms caused by the pathological changes in the brain.

Conclusion:

The result showed that music and song had generally positive effects on health, well-being and quality of life and can be an efficient help in caretaking. All types of music had some effect. Individually adapted live music was most effective.