Objective: To evaluate the effect of virtual group music therapy on apathy in people with Parkinson's disease (PD).
Introduction: Apathy affects 40% of people with PD, lacks effective therapies, and independently predicts poorer quality of life and greater caregiver burden. Music therapy is the clinical application of music to address a person's physical or emotional needs and is effective in treating apathy in dementia.
Methods:
People with idiopathic PD and apathy (Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, apathy item
Results:
Sixteen PD participants (93.8% men, mean age 68.3
Conclusion: Group music therapy is an effective treatment for apathy in PD and may improve mood. The virtual format is a feasible alternative to in-person sessions with high adherence and satisfaction.
Keywords: Parkinson’s disease; apathy; caregivers; music; nonpharmacologic; virtual.