Hospice can be a challenging time for loved ones and the patient. It can be overwhelming with all the changes it comes along with. One way to stay grounded and focus on the special moments is to incorporate music into hospice care. Music can help patients and families feel comfort, connection, and emotional expression during end of life care. This blog will explore the types of music and their benefits for improving the quality of life while in hospice.
Ways to Incorporate Music
Here are some ways that you can incorporate music into end of life care:
Music Therapy
Music therapy is a great way to implement music into hospice and customize it for the patient. This will be guided by a music therapist where they can work with a patient to play with an instrument, write song lyrics, or anything else that can improve their physical or emotional needs.
Live Performances
Invite musicians or friends and family to play music or sing right in front of them. This is a great way to interact and foster a greater sense of connection. Many hospice patients can feel lonely at times, and this will help them feel a part of the community.
Meditation
Meditating to music is a great way to relax, reduce stress, and regulate breathing. Adding a slow and mellow music to mindful meditation exercises can create a greater sense of fulfillment.
Personal Playlist
As a caregiver or loved one, create a playlist of all the patient’s favorite songs so they can have it all in one place. Listening to these songs can bring back positive memories of their life.
Create a Soundtrack of Their Life
Going off of the last one, you can also create a playlist of songs that were meaningful to them throughout their life. This can keep their legacy alive and give loved ones a way to connect with them after.
Benefits of Music in Hospice
Using music in hospice care can:
- Provide Comfort and Connection: Music can evoke emotions and bring back memories, creating a sense of comfort from those moments. You can enjoy music in a group, whether you are singing or listening, and create meaningful connections through it.
- Improve Physical and Mental Ailments: Even though music isn’t prescribed medication, it’s more healing than you may think. While it helps reduce anxiety and regulate breathing, these things can help manage physical symptoms as well. The relaxation that comes from music can also support better sleep.
- Guide Spiritual Connection: Music, especially hymns or gospel music, can help patients and families feel the spirit more strongly. While approaching the end of their life, it can give patients a sense of peace.
- Enhance Communication: Some Rexburg hospice patients can have a hard time communicating with others. Music is a great way to express feelings if it’s hard to communicate with words.
Conclusion
Although hospice care is hard, you can create beautiful and meaningful memories through music. Providing a sense of comfort, peace, expression, and overall wellness, music is a great tool to improve the quality of life for those affected by hospice care.
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