Mixed methods feasibility study of Music Attuned Technology Care via eHealth (MATCH) for people with complex behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia within an acute psychogeriatric ward

INTRODUCTION: Music-based strategies can reduce distress, agitation, and promote wellbeing in people with dementia. Research in specialized dementia care units is limited. 

METHODS: Mixed-methods pre-post study evaluated the feasibility and preliminary effects of Music Attuned Technology Care via eHealth (MATCH) in a dementia-specialized inpatient ward. Staff completed MATCH training and administered MATCH strategies over 8 weeks with enrolled patients. 

RESULTS: Twenty-four staff and 14 patients were recruited. Severity of dementia symptoms, measured by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire, was reduced (median change: −3.0, 95% CI: −9.5, 0.5), especially agitation (median change −3.0, 95% confidence interval −5.5, −0.5). Staff reported high acceptability of MATCH (median score: 13 [interquartile range: 12–14]) and implementing strategies enhanced person-centered care. Patients’ positive responses to music motivated increased use. No changes in staff knowledge or patient depression were found. 

DISCUSSION: MATCH was acceptable to staff and showed potential to reduce agitation symptoms and medication use, warranting further trials to determine effectiveness. 

Clinical trial registration: The clinical trial is registered with the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12623001134617). 

Highlights: MATCH decreased the severity of dementia symptoms, measured by the NPI-Q. 

Staff reported high acceptability of MATCH. 

Personalized music enhanced person-centered care. 

Patients’ positive responses to music motivated increased use. 

No changes in staff knowledge or patient depression were found.