This post was written based on an appearance by Ashlee Hawkins, music therapist, and Allison Thomas, music therapist, on the program PBS HealthLine.
In moments when words are difficult to grasp or fall short, music has long been a powerful means of communication providing an avenue for fostering connection and emotional expression. This sentiment rings especially true in spaces of healing. Here we review the role of music therapy in hospice care and its potential to enhance patient well-being.
What is music therapy?
Music therapy is an allied health profession where therapists work in clinical spaces alongside other healthcare providers to offer patients a holistic treatment approach. A common misconception about this therapy practice is that it involves only playing music or singing, which can still be therapeutic for some individuals. While music is the primary tool, the focus is on achieving non-musical goals that contribute to the patient's overall well-being. The healing approach concentrates on building relationships and connections with patients to address their physical, emotional and social needs.
What types of music do therapists use?
The style of music used in therapy is solely up to the patient. Allowing individuals to choose music that resonates with their personal tastes ensures the experience caters to their specific needs. The therapist’s role is to work collaboratively with the patient to explore those selections and understand why certain songs or genres are important to them. To tailor the therapy session to the patient’s preferences, therapists may incorporate musical instruments, vocal performances or recorded music.
Who can benefit from this type of therapy?
Music therapy is often acknowledged for its benefits among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as autism or Down syndrome. In recent years, the scope of this practice has expanded to support patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities and hospice care.
In hospice care, music therapy is considered a form of complementary medicine offering additional support to standard medical care. Therapists may prioritize approaches that enhance a patient's comfort during their final days rather than contributing to curative care.
For these individuals, music therapy often takes place in the home. By bringing music or instruments directly to patients, therapists create interactive opportunities for engagement, in a familiar setting where their loved ones can participate and share in the experience as well.
According to research published by the American Music Therapy Association, this function of treatment offers many benefits for the patient and family, including:
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Assisting in reducing pain and discomfort.
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Facilitating family communication, relationship completion and social interaction.
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Providing alternative opportunities for processing emotions related to death and dying or bereavement.
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Promoting avenues for spiritual expression and support.
Can music therapy be requested or do patients need a referral?
The process for accessing music therapy can vary based on the patient's circumstances. Depending on their situation, therapy may be referred by the patient's primary care provider if it is believed the services would benefit their recovery or improve quality of life. However, because this therapy is not universally available in all practices, self-advocating or on behalf of a loved one is always a good start.
Learn more
If you have questions or want more information about hospice and palliative care services or a patient referral to Parkview Hospice, please call 260-368-5111 or 260-368-5146. You can also complete our online form here. We are happy to answer your questions and walk those paths with you.
