Reflections on the challenges of the new (online) music therapy setting for people with dementia

Abstract

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic globally enforced safety precautions were implemented resulting in increased social distancing and isolation especially among people with dementia and their caregivers. This critical situation intensified the need to reach and support this already vulnerable population. Music therapists have answered the challenge by providing telehealth music therapy. However, the new online setting raises questions and dilemmas. As music therapists who have worked for many years with people with dementia and their caregivers, we pause to reflect on the new path we took and consider what we can learn and embrace from this new modality of practice.