Numerous studies have shown that the use of calming music can decrease agitation in cognitively impaired nursing home residents. It is an effective, nonpharmacologic strategy that you can use to calm down your agitated residents as well as to create a pleasant environment for everyone. Using a selection from the 1940s and 50s could transport your residents to a happier time of their life!
 
A European study suggests that dinner music, particularly classical or soothing music, can reduce irritability, fear, panic and depressed moods. It has also shown that music can positively influence the quantity of food residents eat during meals, especially dessert!
 
Another study examined the effect of classical music and favourite music on the repetitive disruptive vocalizations of long-term-care facility residents with Alzheimer's and the results showed that it significantly decreased the number of vocalizations in more than half the subjects.