Group music therapy and emorional well-being in Parkinson's disease. Intervention proposal.

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder in Spain. It is characterized by the loss of neurons in the substantia nigra, causing a dopamine deficiency. Movement control is impaired, causing the main symptoms, rigidity and tremor at rest. Music therapy has been shown to be effective in improving gait, voice, and speech. Although the psychological and social aspects are very present, their study has received less attention. Social isolation is common among people affected by PD. A group intervention proposal is presented, based on Pacchetti et al. (2000), Bentz (2011) and Wigram (2005), aimed at work in the socio-emotional field. It is intended to improve emotional well-being and enhance social relationships to reduce depressive symptoms and improve mood. An evaluation system is proposed through observation and standardized tests. The proposal aims to provide more knowledge in our language about PD and its treatment through music therapy.