A description of the current state of music therapy research with those who have dementia and the future of music therapy in dementia care is provided in this chapter. The contents stem from many years of experience as a board-certified music therapist with those who have dementia and their care givers, and it culminates learning from clinical practice and research in the development of a theoretical framework and practice knowledge. Deep appreciation is expressed for all care receivers, and their care givers, who allowed music therapy to become part of their lives and who consented to participate in the development of knowledge to share with others. This chapter provides: (a) A review of selected clinical research studies in music therapy and dementia care, (b) updated dementia information that has implications for current music therapy practice, (c) a theoretical framework for music therapy, and (d) the theoretical principles that guide clinical music therapy practice with care receivers and caregivers.
