Music intervention efficacy in elderly: a promising non-pharmacological approach to cognitive dysfunctions

Excerpt

Aging, due to the gradual elongation of average life expectancy, represents the strongest known risk factor for cognitive decline and behavior disorders. A slow weakening of some cognitive functions such as memory, processing information speed, language, visual learning, problems solving ability, and executive functioning, with sparing of crystallized intelligence (i.e., the experience), is fairly common. These dysfunctions are often associated with changes in behavior, reduced environmental adaptation skills, depression and anxiety, which lead to a worsening of the quality of life, accounting a considerable burden due to the negative impact on various functions, including social and daily living activities [1, 2]. …