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Míriam Cano Esteller (BA,MA) is an IACAT registered music therapist currently engaged in doctoral research at the University of Limerick, Ireland where she also holds a research assistant post. Her research focuses on the use of arts for health and well-being, with a particular emphasis on participatory and inclusive frameworks.
She is currently focusing her efforts on her PhD, where she is exploring the use of music therapy as a non-pharmacologic analgesic as a complimentary intervention for people living with chronic pain; and has recently joined the Xtreme project as a researcher music therapist to explore the potential of the use of Mixed Reality in a music therapy intervention for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
What music therapy is:
Music therapy is an evidence-based profession where the planned and creative use of music-based interventions, delivered by an accredited music therapist, supports people to improve, restore, or maintain their health, functioning, and well-being. It uses music as a therapeutic tool to address emotional, social, cognitive, and physical needs.
How music therapy has been used to support people with dementia:
Music therapy has been widely used in dementia care because musical memory tends to be preserved longer, even as other cognitive functions decline. This allows people living with dementia to still respond to music.
It supports emotional expression, enhances mood, promotes social interaction, and improves communication. Techniques such as singing, listening, improvisation, and movement help engage individuals, can reduce symptoms like depression or apathy, and improve overall quality of life.
What aspects are most important when considering the experience and needs of people with dementia in this context:
The most important aspects include:
Individual differences in symptoms → dementia affects each person differently, so experiences must be personalized
Cognitive and emotional sensitivity → avoid overwhelming environments and support clarity and comfort
Preserved musical memory → use familiar and meaningful music to create engagement
Nonverbal communication → focus on emotional and sensory experiences rather than complex instructions
Ease of interaction → simple, intuitive interactions are essential, especially in XR environments
Social connection → supporting interaction with caregivers and loved ones is key
Your perspective on how the XTREME project could be considered in this area, and what we should pay attention to
The XTREME project can be considered as an innovative, state-of-the-art approach to delivering music therapy experiences using mixed reality.
It has the potential to:
Create immersive and engaging environments for music therapy
Enhance emotional connection and communication through music
Support shared experiences between people with dementia, caregivers, and loved ones
Open new possibilities for accessibility and personalization
However, we should pay attention to:
Simplicity and usability of the technology
Cognitive load and potential confusion in immersive environments
Ethical considerations and well-being of participants
Personalization of experiences based on individual needs
Reliability and technical stability during sessions
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