Training manual for music therapists when guiding caregivers to integrate person attuned musical interactions (PAMI) in dementia care

Background: Musical elements, such as tone of voice, tempo, and volume are important components in communication, especially when interacting with persons with moderate/severe dementia with limited communication skills. Although benefits of music on wellbeing of people with dementia are widely acknowledged, the importance of paying attention to musical elements in daily care has not been formally investigated. To further develop the person-centred approach in dementia care, there was a need for music therapists to skill-share therapeutic and observation skills and support caregivers through training.

Methods: The Person Attuned Musical Interactions (PAMI) research group was formed to develop and evaluate a training package for professional caregivers. Insights from literature reviews, interviews with music therapists specialising in dementia care, action research workshops, and theory development contributed to the production of the first version of the PAMI manual. The PAMI manual and training package was field tested in Danish nursing homes. The original manual in Danish is currently being translated into English for wider dissemination.

Results: The PAMI manual presents comprehensive teaching material based on situated and experiential learning: (1) Booklet for caregivers with key points, exercises and tools. (2) Theory book explaining PAMI. (3) PowerPoints for four modules. (4) Training manual for music therapists with exercises and instructions.

Conclusion: Once finalised, music therapists will be able to use this comprehensive training package to skill-share key communicative components to enhance reciprocal interactions between caregivers and persons with dementia.