ETHHAR, Digital Application to reconstruct memories through music

Abstract

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease affects over 50 million people worldwide, and personalised music is emerging as a promising non-pharmacological option. This case study, conducted in Montevideo (Uruguay), evaluates Ethhar, an app that builds playlists linked to each patient’s life history. Objectives: To examine the cognitive-behavioural impact of personalised musical interventions on autobiographical memory and self-awareness in people with Alzheimer’s disease. Method: An ABA design was applied with four female patients (aged 79-89, GDS 5-6) treated at IMEDER. During twelve sessions (two per week, one month) the quality of autobiographical recall was assessed with the TEMPau test before and after listening to 30-minute playlists generated from a 17-item questionnaire processed by Ethhar. A Wilcoxon test compared pre- and post-scores. Results: All participants improved immediately after listening (average increase of one TEMPau point); in two cases baseline scores progressively stabilised or rose. The statistical analysis was significant (W = 0; p < 0.01), suggesting effects beyond chance. Relatives and clinicians also noted greater well-being and social engagement. Conclusions: Personalised playlists enhance memory retrieval and reinforce identity, providing a simple, non-invasive, low-cost resource that complements pharmacotherapy and cognitive rehabilitation. Broader samples and longer follow-up are recommended to optimise digital music-therapy protocols.