Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) Practice Exam

A client with late-stage dementia shows some responses during therapy. What would be the best recommendation for her treatment?

1. Individual sessions emphasizing sensory awareness and stimulation

2. A small rhythm group emphasizing group cohesiveness

3. A music appreciation group emphasizing reminiscence and life review

4. Individual sessions emphasizing reality orientation

The correct answer is: Individual sessions emphasizing sensory awareness and stimulation

The most appropriate recommendation for a client with late-stage dementia is to focus on individual sessions that emphasize sensory awareness and stimulation. In late-stage dementia, individuals may have limited cognitive processing abilities, making it difficult for them to engage in complex activities or remember past experiences. However, they often retain some capacity for sensory perception and can respond to sensory stimuli such as music, rhythm, and textures. Sensory awareness and stimulation can provide a means of communication when verbal interaction is not possible. Tailoring individual sessions in this way allows for a more personalized approach, catering to the client’s specific sensory preferences and needs. This can enhance emotional connections, promote relaxation, and potentially improve the client’s overall quality of life by providing enjoyment and engagement in the moment. While group settings, such as rhythm groups or music appreciation sessions, offer beneficial experiences for social interaction and reminiscence, they may not be as effective for individuals in late-stage dementia who may struggle to follow along or participate meaningfully. Focusing on sensory experiences allows the therapist to adapt to the individual client's responses in real time, creating a more effective therapeutic environment.