WELCOME

The overall goal of our research network is to accelerate research that aims to understand the mechanisms by which Music Based Interventions (MBIs) affect health and well-being for older adults living with Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) and their care partners.

Music, Dementia & Brain Health Research Summit/Performance. AARP’s Brain Health Action Collaborative and the Music & Dementia Research Network (MDRN) co-hosted a public event showcasing the power of music, song and dance for brain health and the many positive impacts of music therapy for individuals living with dementia. Dr. Julene Johnson, a GCBH music report expert and principal investigator of the MDRN, served as emcee for the event. Check out the recording (Password: Music0516!).

The performance was the culmination of a 2-day research summit at AARP, supported by the NIH National Institute on Aging, that brought together over 40 researchers from multiple disciplines to discuss how music affects the health and well-being of older adults living with Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias and their care partners. The outcome of the summit will be a publication that will outline research priorities.

Join the Music & Dementia Research Network

Are you passionate about the power of music and its potential to transform lives? Do you work in dementia care, music therapy, neuroscience, psychology, or community arts? Whether you’re a researcher, practitioner, caregiver, or advocate—we invite you to be part of something meaningful.

The Music and Dementia Research Network brings together a diverse community of people dedicated to understanding how music can support the well-being of individuals living with dementia.

Why Join Us?

Collaborate Across Disciplines - Connect with researchers, clinicians, artists, and community organizations to explore new ideas, share knowledge, and co-create impactful projects.
Advance Innovative Research - Help drive evidence-based approaches that harness music as a tool for memory, connection, and dignity in dementia care.
Amplify Real Voices - We center lived experience. Hear directly from those affected by dementia, and ensure their perspectives shape the future of care and research.
Build a Supportive Community - Join a vibrant, international network where you can learn, inspire, and grow alongside others who care deeply about this work.
Access Resources & Opportunities - Stay up-to-date with the latest research, funding calls, events, and training opportunities across the field.

LATEST NEWS:

RESOURCES:

The relationship between playing musical instruments and cognitive trajectories: Analysis from a UK ageing cohort - The accumulation of age-associated cognitive deficits can lead to Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia. This is a major public health issue for the modern ageing population, as it impairs health, independence and overall .... (Full Article)

Lessons in Music for the Healthy Aging Brain - In a 2018 study, researchers found musicians have “younger-looking brains.” The researchers took MRI scans of professional musicians, amateur musicians, and non-musicians to compare how their brains were aging. (Full Article)

From Anxiety to Alzheimer’s, Music Makes a Difference - Music therapy is proving to be a powerful adjunct treatment for a range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, chronic pain, movement disorders, and mental health issues. Research highlights how music can regulate heart rate, reduce anxiety, and even improve communication in patients with memory loss. (Full Article)