Music as Medicine: Supporting Pain Management and Emotional Wellness in Hospice Care
Oct 01, 2025
By Brandon Heritz, Caregiver at Appling Hospice Care
When we hear the phrase "hospice care," most of us think of comfort, dignity, and compassionate support during the final stages of life. But what if I told you that music can play a powerful role in this journey too? I remember when my aunt was in hospice care at home. She had always loved jazz, and even in her most challenging days, a simple melody would light up her eyes. Her story isn’t unique. Across the world, families and caregivers are turning to music as a gentle but impactful tool to ease pain and lift spirits.
How Music Helps Manage Pain
Pain is a reality many patients face during hospice care. While medication remains essential, music offers a natural, non-invasive way to help. Imagine lying in bed with discomfort creeping in, and suddenly your favorite song starts playing. The brain releases endorphins, creating a natural pain-relieving effect. I’ve seen patients go from wincing in pain to softly tapping their fingers in rhythm. It doesn’t erase the pain entirely, but it transforms the moment, offering relief and distraction. This approach isn’t just anecdotal. Many studies, like this one, have shown that music therapy can reduce the perception of pain and lower anxiety levels.
If you'd like to learn more about how families experience this, check out this hospice care guide.
Emotional Wellness and Music’s Healing Power
Facing the end of life brings waves of emotions: fear, sadness, nostalgia, sometimes even regret. Music can serve as a bridge, helping patients express feelings they can’t always put into words. A friend once shared how her father, a lifelong country music fan, found comfort listening to old hits from his youth. It sparked conversations about his adventures, loves, and even the silly mistakes he made along the way. In these moments, music does more than soothe—it connects. Hospice teams often encourage families to create playlists that hold meaning for their loved ones. These songs become a shared language of love and memory.
Bringing Family Closer Together
Music isn’t only for patients; it touches families too. Sitting together and listening to familiar songs can create peaceful, intimate spaces where words aren’t necessary. One evening, I sat beside a family as they played gospel songs for their grandmother. Tears flowed freely, but there was also laughter and gentle dancing in their seats. It was a moment of pure connection, a final gift they could share.
Choosing the Right Music
Not every song is right for every person. Choosing music for hospice care should always be personal. Some may find comfort in religious hymns, while others prefer classical pieces or classic rock. It’s important to consider the individual’s history and personality. A nurse once told me about a patient who loved heavy metal. Instead of gentle piano melodies, they played Metallica and saw the patient’s eyes light up in recognition. It wasn’t what they expected, but it was exactly what he needed.
Simple Ways to Incorporate Music at Home
While it may be helpful to tap into the services of a professional music therapist, music can be used therapeutically in a myriad of ways. A good starting point is to ask your loved one about their favorite artists or songs. Create a playlist and play it during quiet moments or while sharing a meal. Live music, if possible, can spark joy and bring meaningful moments of connection. Even a softly sung tune or instrumental guitar music can create a comforting atmosphere.
If you would like your loved one to receive formal music therapy in hospice care, there are a few ways to initiate services. Many hospice organizations offer music therapy as part of their services, so you can start by inquiring with them. Another option is to check with your insurance provider. Lastly, you can seek a music therapist who accepts private pay clients by searching ‘music therapy near me’ online.
For more information on music therapy in hospice care, view this fact sheet from the American Music Therapy Association.
Music as a Legacy
As the journey nears its end, music often becomes part of a lasting legacy. Families hold on to playlists, recordings, and memories tied to certain songs. Long after a loved one is gone, these songs can bring back smiles and tears in equal measure. In many ways, music becomes a thread that keeps connections alive.
Final Thoughts
Music in hospice care isn’t about curing; it’s about caring. It offers moments of peace, sparks joy, and eases pain in ways that words sometimes cannot. Next time you think about supporting someone in hospice, consider sharing a song. It might be the most healing gift you can give.
Brandon Heritz is a compassionate hospice caregiver at Appling Hospice Care, where he provides end-of-life care with dedication and empathy. With a background in nursing and a special focus on palliative support, Brandon helps patients and their families navigate the challenges of terminal illness with grace and understanding.
