Benefits of Music Therapy

By Midwest CareCenter music therapists Kate Geouge, MT-BC; Rachel Rilinger, M.A., MT-BC, Neurologic Music Therapist; Elizabeth Sheffler, MT-BC

"He can't even say my name anymore," Hila* whispered to the music therapist about changes in her husband's condition. "He seems content, but I am not sure if he even remembers who I am." Hila's husband Harold had been on hospice with Midwest CareCenter for almost eight months, in the final stages of Parkinson's.

Harold* was referred to music therapy to help with emotional expression, enhancing communication, and cognitive stimulation. On the first visit, the music therapist saw the struggle Hila and Harold faced with his decline. Understanding how music uniquely interacts with the body, the music therapist was able to determine that Harold was still able to sing full words and melodies despite his inability to speak simple words. Using this strength, the music therapist found a melody and rhythm to encourage Harold to say three simple words—"I love you." After months of not hearing Harold speak a coherent word, Hila's husband was suddenly gazing into her eyes stating, "I love You Hila." 

Every day, music therapists at Midwest CareCenter are seen with guitars on their backs, drums and maracas in their rolling bags, and a big songbook that spans multiple genres.
Though these walking musicians look like traveling entertainers, there is a much deeper purpose in their efforts. The story of Hila and Harold is just one example of the many powerful music therapy sessions that are implemented on a daily basis with CareCenter patients and families.

Patients participate in song writing to help express and cope with issues around dying. Those experiencing pain often find that music therapy can decrease or eliminate their pain within a matter of minutes, with no side effects. Dementia patients who fall asleep at the edges of facility activity groups are able to engage one-on-one with a music therapist to sing and play instruments, providing valuable cognitive stimulation and quality of life. In these situations and so many more, music therapists are trained to use music as a clinical tool to support the ongoing needs and goals of patients and families.

It is extremely rewarding to work as a music therapist for Midwest CareCenter.
Although difficulties come with working in any hospice setting, the benefit of seeing the power of music applied in a clinical way, significantly impacting a patient's life greatly outweighs any of the challenges we face. We are grateful for an organization that supports our work, our passion. Our newest music therapist, Elizabeth Sheffler, shared, "The support of Midwest has made my job even easier...which is hard to do since I love it so much!"

*names changed for confidentiality