The goal of this single-arm feasibility study is to learn whether group music therapy is feasible in a rural area for people living with dementia and their companions. The main questions are:
1. Is a group music therapy intervention feasible in a rural community setting? 1a. Are there preliminary changes in health and well-being outcomes following participation in a 10-week community music therapy group? 2. What were participants' experiences and preferences regarding the different components of the music therapy programme? 3. What is the role of peer support in participants' experiences of a community music therapy intervention?
Participants living with dementia and their companions will be asked to take part in 10-weeks of music therapy in the community. Before and after each music therapy session, they will be asked to answer an easy-read satisfaction survey to gather information on the 'in the moment' experiences of music therapy.
Participants will also be asked to complete surveys on quality of life, loneliness, depression and well-being on three occasions:
* Before music therapy starts * During week 5 of music therapy * After music therapy
After music therapy, participants will also be asked to
* Complete a survey about their experiences of different parts of the music therapy programme * Take part in an individual feasibility interview * Take part in an interview exploring the role of peer support within the music therapy groups
If a person does not have the capacity to answer any questions, their companion will be asked to provide the information on behalf of the individual living with dementia.
One person must have a clinical diagnosis of dementia and be accompanied by a companion
Participants must be able to attend the 10-week programme, recognising that unavoidable absences (e.g., illness or unforeseen personal circumstances) may occur
Be willing to provide data on health and well-being and take part in interviews.
Be able to speak and understand the English language
Individuals, as dyads are the participants being recruited
Dyads were neither person has a clinical diagnosis of dementia
Are unavailable to generally commit to the research programme including music therapy sessions
Are unable to speak or understand the English language