This paper reviews the state of the science of interventions using music to
decrease the agitated behaviour of the demented elderly person. Seven rese
arch articles were located through computerized databases. The review of th
e literature suggested that music therapy is a useful intervention to help
patients deal with a range of behaviour problems. However, overall weakness
and limitations of studies are considerable. More rigorous research design
s are required to evaluate the immediate and sustained physiological, psych
ological and sociological effects of music therapy on agitation behaviours
of demented elderly. Some recommendations for future research are provided.