Because music is non-threatening, enjoyable and enhances brain function, people of diverse ages, backgrounds and abilities can gain therapeutic benefits through music therapy. When caring for those at the end of life, music therapy can bind with other healing efforts to address the physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of hospice patients.

What kinds of music therapy techniques are used?
Music therapists draw from an extensive array of music activities and interventions. For example, the therapist and patient might compose songs to help express feelings, a patient might learn to play the piano to improve fine motor skills, or another patient might use musical instruments to cope with unspoken emotions. Learn more about the ways VITAS music therapists help patients by reading Rx: Hospice Music Therapy.

Who can benefit from music therapy?
Music therapy can provide the most benefit to patients who:

• Lack social interaction or sensory stimulation
• Experience pain and symptoms that are difficult to control through typical medical interventions
• Feel anxious or are affected by dementia
• Look for a concrete means of coping, or to define or articulate their feelings or thoughts
• Face communication problems due to physical or intellectual impairments
• Need spiritual support, possibly involving other family members
• Enjoy music to enhance their quality of life or maintain dignity

Music therapy may not be available in your service area. Please contact your local program for more information.