Learning How To Use Music At The End Of Life

The Heart of Hospice Podcast

Bev Foster with Music Care by Room 217 is using beautiful music to create meaning at the end of life. Using her skills as a musician, Bev founded Room 217 to teach clinicians and caregivers about integrating music into the care experience.

Here’s what Bev says about her own personal experience: As a musician, the effects of what I do have always intrigued me. Using music in my personal caregiving experiences has compelled me to look farther and wider at its use in health care. My vision is that music care, in all its methods of delivery, be accessible to everyone.

Room 217 teaches that there are simple things to do at the end of life, even if you’re not a musician or can’t sing. Breathing in sync with someone who is at end of life can provide comfort and presence. Even humming a single note can be effective. It’s easy to adjust volume, rhythm, and pace. There is great power in these simple actions.

Monitoring the response to the music is key. Not every patient enjoys or is receptive to hearing any type of music, so it’s important to see he reacts. Turning away or becoming agitated might indicate that the music is causing increased stress or stimulation. Music interventions should always be customized to suit the individual’s needs.

You can find all the resources and courses offered by Music Care by Room 217 at musiccare.org.

Read Bev’s personal story and find her music at bevfoster.com.

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