A study of the efficacy of IAMT as an assessment tool for prediction of progression of Parkinson’s Disease

The research project aims to investigate the efficacy of Improvised Active Music Therapy (IAMT) in assessing the motor and cognitive functioning of patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). As an emerging treatment, music therapy has been embraced as an effective rehabilitation alternative for neurodegenerative conditions, such as PD. In IAMT, the music therapist facilitates a spontaneous musical experience with the patients via musical improvisation. Data of the patient’s response through music-making is collected digitally and different parameters (i.e. note count, velocity and synchronization) are analyzed. The music measures correlating to the patient’s cognitive and motor outcome measure will enable us to detect those at higher risk of further mobility and cognitive decline and identify early symptoms for PD’s progression into different types of Dementia. This research will provide a feasible assessment tool for the practicing music therapists working with PD patients and it will attract further interests in the related topics.

Faculty Supervisor:

Demian Kogutek

Student:

Partner:

Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

Wilfrid Laurier University

Program: