Music Therapy Intervention to Reduce Symptom Burden in Hospice Patients: A Descriptive Study
Journal
American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®
Year
2025
Abstract
Background: Music therapy (MT) offers benefits of improved symptom relief and quality of life at the end of life, but its impact on hospice patients and caregivers needs more research. Objective: To assess the impact of MT intervention on symptom burden and well-being of hospice patients and caregivers. Methods: A total of 18 hospice patients, selected based on scores ≥4 on the revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS-r) items on pain, depression, anxiety, or well-being, participated in MT sessions provided by a board-certified music therapist. Over a period of 2-3 weeks, 3-4 MT sessions were conducted for each. Patient Quality of life (QOL) was assessed using the Linear Analogue Self-Assessment (LASA). Depression and anxiety were measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4). For the 7 caregivers enrolled, stress levels were measured using the Pearlin role overload measure and LASA. Results: Patients reported a reduction in symptom severity and emotional distress and an increase in QOL. All patients endorsed satisfaction with music therapy, describing it as particularly beneficial for stress relief, relaxation, spiritual support, emotional support, and well-being. Scores on overall QOL and stress were worse for caregivers. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that MT reduces symptom burden and enhances the quality of life for hospice patients. Hospice patients and their caregivers endorsed satisfaction with MT. Given the benefits observed, integrating MT into hospice care regimens could potentially improve patient and caregiver outcomes. Larger studies should be conducted to better assess the impact of MT in this population.
Music and Health Institute Terms
Quality of Life; Symptom Management; Palliative Care; Hospice Care; Caregivers; Stress; Relaxation; Mental Relaxation; Wellness and Well-Being; Music Therapy; Subjective Measures
Study Type
Case Study; Qualitative Methods
PubMed ID
Publisher: SAGE Publications Inc
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Estell, M. H., Whitford, K. J., Ulrich, A. M., Larsen, B. E., Wood, C., Bigelow, M. L., Dockter, T. J., Schoonover, K. L., Stelpflug, A. J., Strand, J. J., Walton, M. P., & Lapid, M. I. (2025). Music Therapy Intervention to Reduce Symptom Burden in Hospice Patients: A Descriptive Study. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®, 42 (1), 102-111. Retrieved from https://remix.berklee.edu/mhi-citations/1903