Case Studies in Huntington's Disease: Music Therapy Assessment and Treatment in the Early to Advanced Stages

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe the different stages of Huntington's Disease (HD) and to present methods of music therapy assessment and treatment specifically related to the varying levels of abilities seen in the early to advanced stages of this illness. Whilst these methods are described here in relation to HD, they are also useful when working with clients with other forms of cognitive or neurological impairment.

Music therapy, unlike other treatments, provides an active outlet for a person living with HD even during the most advanced stages of the illness. Participation in music therapy can be facilitated for those people who are unable to take part in any other form of activity, thus providing a valuable assessment tool for other disciplines working with the HD client.

This paper will present a progressive picture of life for the HD client. Using case studies, it will suggest different music therapy treatment approaches for the varying stages of the illness. Special consideration will be given to assessment when working with clients experiencing cognitive degeneration, and methods for optimising clients' remaining skills within individual and group settings.

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