A Comprehensive Review of the Mechanisms of NMT For Reversing Neurodegenerative Disorders

Abstract

This paper reviews the literature concerning the mechanisms of music therapy that improve the quality of life for patients with neurodegenerative diseases. Music therapy is a remedial practice involving music to help improve health. Certain professional therapists practice Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) as an allied health profession that provides evidence-based care to hospitalized patients, not just as a source of comfort, but also as a source of healing. This is especially the case for patients with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, and expressive aphasia. The current growing body of researchers is investigating the effects of music therapy on memory, speech, motor control, and behavior. However, various questions remain unanswered. In this review paper, we gathered primary literature to evaluate the use of music therapy and the mechanisms that lead to successful outcomes. Music therapy is important because it provides a way to enhance comfort for diseased patients, whether in a hospitalized state or an average daily scenario. In patients with neurodegenerative diseases, music increases plasticity in areas of the brain that may improve speech, memory, behavior, and more. As we better understand the mechanisms and optimize music therapy, it may provide more ease to patients and even treat and cure certain disorders in the future.