 sj |
||
|
||
Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying
|
|
|
Subject: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 02 Jul 06 - 03:14 PM I am "hanging out my sign" to be available to play my dulcimer for those who suffer from chronic illness, are in a coma, and/or dying. I'd like to know about your experiences, if any, in doing the same. Also, if you've ever run into a situation which required "professional" crededntials. If so, how did you handle it or what kind of creds do you have? Thanks, much! kat |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: GUEST,Wesley S Date: 02 Jul 06 - 04:22 PM No experience there Kat, but have you considered talking to someone active in the hospice field? They might be able to point you in the right direction. I would think that if you were to perform for groups in hospice that you might be able to find individuals that might want to go further with it. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 02 Jul 06 - 04:39 PM Thanks, Wesley. I have played for hospices, before, in WY and do plan to talk with them, here. I am just concerned they might not want me if I don't have the "proper" credentials. I guess I'll see what folks say when they read my handout. Thanks, again, Kat |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Genie Date: 02 Jul 06 - 04:50 PM I don't think there's ever a requirement that you have certified credentials to play music for people who are ill or elderly or dying, as long as you don't use the terms "music therapy" or "music therapist," and in some states or countries even that may not be a limitation. But you can often use similar terms such as "music as therapy" with no problem. If there were really a concern that music by "unqualified professionals" would do harm to people, hospitals and nursing and rehab centers and hospices would start regulating radios and CD players. I have been doing music as entertainment, music as a therapeutic activity, and music to soothe the frail, ailing, and dying for over 10 years, and I have never encountered any obstacles to what I do. People who are licenced music therapists do sometimes get regular gigs that aren't offered to me, and that seems reasonable - especially if they do more than just play and sing, lead sing-alongs, get people involved in rhythm instruments, etc. But mostly I think that is because I travel too much to be available on a once or twice a week basis for anyone. Of course, every facility you deal with and every administrator or activity director may have their own criteria. Genie |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: wysiwyg Date: 02 Jul 06 - 05:07 PM IMO what you want to stress is that you are a volunteer who offers music, not a musician or therapy who is volunteering. That should set the right tone. Or... maybe you want to get certified? ~Susan |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Genie Date: 02 Jul 06 - 05:32 PM You're right, Susan, that if you're volunteering the rules are even more flexible than if you are paid. But many facilities hire people, without the Music Therapist certification, to do room-to-room visits and lead group musical activities specifically designed to stimulate memory, other cognitive functioning and/or emotional reaction (tears, laughter, smiles). They also use many unlicensed pet therapy providers (the pets are licensed but not their owners). Nothing wrong with looking into getting certified, but you may be looking at years of courses (even if you already have degrees in related fields) and thousands to tens of thousands of dollars just to get that official credential. Is it worth that just so you can play your dulcimer for people who are ill or dying? People who do what I do but are licensed Music Therapists have told me they usually don't get paid any more than I do (which is not a lot, especially in these times of budget cuts for social and medical services). Then again, if you're 20-something, going for certification makes more sense than if you're a geezer like me. Genie |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 02 Jul 06 - 05:44 PM God preserve me from ever being in the hands of the kind of carers who would want "professional qualifications" before they'd allow a friendly lady to come in and play music for me. Requiring personal references, now that might be fair enough. And taking into account how the listeners liked it or not. There's music and there's music... |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: cetmst Date: 03 Jul 06 - 07:55 AM The Journal of the Southern Medical Association - Southern Medical Journal - published a continuing medical education topic "Music as Therapy" in its March 2005 issue discussing many aspects of the effect of music on the ill, the anxious recipients of medical procedures, newborns and caregivers, with an extensive bibliography and literature list. The journal should be available in local hospital libraries or reprints may be obtained from the lead author. Her address is on the article or I can send it to whoever would like it. I would certainly agree that informal Music as Therapy is different from formal Music Therapy and can be provided by volunteers, caregivers, both professional and those thrust into the role by circumstances and by anyone who can hum a favorite tune or a lullaby at the bedside. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Lizzie Cornish Date: 03 Jul 06 - 08:31 AM What a lovely idea Kat! I can think of nothing more soothing than some beautiful music to ease people's minds. Music is so good for the soul. And the sound of a dulcimer is lovely. Certainly the idea above of linking up with hospices sounds great. I wish you well and I'm sure you'll bring much comfort to many people. Lizzie :0) |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 03 Jul 06 - 11:24 AM Thanks, so much, all of you. I really appreciate your input and encouragement. I have been working on a flyer to hand-out (I think I already said that, but oh well)and wanted to be sure I worded it in a good, clear way. When I get it done, I'll post it, maybe, and see what ya'll think. luvyakat |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: open mike Date: 03 Jul 06 - 12:43 PM i posted on the other threads funeralmusic and thantology threads... good luck in your mission and i have thought of offering this service also after having an experience of helping others thru this . i also have been looking into "green burial" ther are many options that people do not always hear about such as whole body donation and natural burial... Jessica Mitford (American Way of Death) and Elisabeth Kubler-Ross (Death and Dying) have opened up discussion on this topic |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: wysiwyg Date: 03 Jul 06 - 12:54 PM Kat, at my lowest I have really enjoyed my little plucked psaltery-- I can pick out a note at a time with my eyes closed, not worrying about any tune but just letting each note ring, long and peaceful. You might consider taking yours along to do that, too, or let the ill person run their fingers over it for a few minutes with no goal of "playing" it but just intoning individual notes at random. ~S~ |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: open mike Date: 03 Jul 06 - 02:09 PM my search engine is not able to find the other threads.. on funeral music and music therapy..i think i have seen both in the past couple of weeks..can anyone else find them and link here or refresh them? thanks. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 03 Jul 06 - 02:23 PM Susan, that's a good idea, but my little one went to visit a friend in CT, and my other one is too big, so I'll just have the dulcimer for now. Thanks, though! Laurel, good question/reminder. I need to go back and re-read some of these: Music and Vital Signs Musicians on call - org for healing Certified music practitioners Music Therapy II which has links to all of the other music therapy threads. Thanks! |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Elmer Fudd Date: 03 Jul 06 - 03:27 PM Kat, The Threshhold Choir founded by Kate Munger has a CD of music they have performed at transitions and have found to be appreciated in such situations. Info on obtaining one is below. Bless your heart for undertaking such beautiful service to others. It takes much inner strength and compassion. Elmer Threshold Choir CD info |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 03 Jul 06 - 05:29 PM Thank you, Elmer! I knew I'd read about them somewhere, but couldn't find it! And, thanks for your comments. It is because of Mudcat and all that folks have shared here, that I have come to this desire to help folks pass over. We've had so many, incredible postings about the power of music, it's been in my mind and heart for a long time; only now, with a new heart valve, I finally have the energy to do so.:-) About a year and a half ago, I mentioned it to the nephrologist I see once in awhile. She thought it was a wonderful idea, but also suggested another direction; she thought the staff of the kidney dialysis place would really benefit from the peaceful tones of the dulcimer, too. So, I will be giving her a call, too, as I would enjoy playing just to help folks focus and be calm, be they travelling on or no. Some have heard this, before:-) When I first got my dulcimer, "Peaches," in 2001, I played for a neighbour, the sister of Lakota Healer who had lead a "sweat" I'd been to the previous year. I explained to her about playing for someone while they are dying. As soon as she heard me play she told me she'd want me there for her. It filled my heart to know she would choose to have me there, alongside her brother for whom I have enormous respect. So, the spark was lit, it's just taken me some time to get it burning brightly. Thanks to Mudcat for the inspiration and all of the kindness you've all shown. kat |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Elmer Fudd Date: 03 Jul 06 - 06:57 PM Kat, That's a GREAT idea to play in dialysis clinics. They are not happy places. There's even a common phenomenon known as "dialysis psychosis" in which dialysis patients temporarily flip out. It's partly due to the intense psychological stress of being dependent on such life support. My guess is that, with the right approach, you would be warmly welcomed and appreciated. PS: Kate Munger at the Threshold Choirs is very approachable. She sent me a CD just for expressing interest in the choirs. E. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Beer Date: 03 Jul 06 - 10:12 PM Kat. Just read all the postings and there is so much that has been offered, discussed and so on I don't think I can contribute much more. My thoughts at this point are: 1) Were you asked for credentials? 2) Are you a volunteer? 3) How long have you been playing your instrument? 4) Did you want to get paid? 5) Have you played in hospital setting before? Sounds like I'm asking for credentials. Well, maybe I am in a way. I don't know you. You sound very conscientious, concerned and all the other pretty adjectives that can be said. But you are offering to go into an area that is highly regulated. Maybe that is not a good word to use. But I think you all know what I mean. I was responsible in providing entertainment for a 1600 bed psychiatric hospital for 25 years. Stories!!!! I could write a book. After 35 years in total, I retired 5 years ago. I still go to the old folks home and play music. Please Kat, understand what I'm trying to say. Your intentions are great, but can you play?? How long have you been performing? Are you a musician that is called up from the audience to play 2 or 3 songs? Get a great response then go home with a happy smile on your face. Then have a hard time sleeping because you were so great? Mean while the folks on their way home are talking about the dud that was trying to play/sing? We had to clap hands though. It was the thing to do. I'm not wanting to be negative, but trying to be sure of who you are and are you prepared for what you want to do. Beer |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 03 Jul 06 - 11:51 PM Elmer, thansk for the further info. I will contact her about the CD! Beer, No problem. All very valid questions and something I may run into and want to be prepared for. Thank you and to answer you: 1) Were you asked for credentials? No, not yet. May not be. 2) Are you a volunteer? Have been, but have also been paid. 3) How long have you been playing your instrument? Five years. 4) Did you want to get paid? In certain situations, yes. 5) Have you played in hospital setting before? Yes. And, also in hospice. Some of my background includes having worked in nursing homes, on the *terminal ward* of a hospital, and having been trained as an EMT. I have done a fair bit of spiritual work over the years with friends and family. I also grew up in a very musical household. We all played at least two instruments, my mom and dad played for dances, and my dad "entertained the old folks" in nursing homes until he was 85. My sister was a music teacher for over 30 years and my brother is a classical composer. I've played violin and piano since I was eight years old. Haven't done any serious fiddling, but have been practising since getting my dad's fiddle last year, after he passed away. The upcoming "commercial" gig I have on the 8th is for several hours, with breaks, so I've got some stamina and know enough tunes to get by, though my "stock in trade" is intuitive tunes or what one could call improv, I guess. If somebody can hum me the tune, I can pick it out. I did one last November for about three hours and they were well-pleased. I am not into it for any earth-shattering reason. I don't dream of being at Carnegie Hall or anything.*smile* I just have felt a calling, so to speak, over the past years and am now am at a point where I believe I can handle it, physically and emotionally, as well as spiritually. I've been told I am my own worst critic and that my playing is "peaceful" which is exactly what I am going for; this from strangers and friends alike. Please don't think I am being defensive. Just trying to address your concerns, esp. as I know I may hear them from anyone whom I approach. I was responsible in providing entertainment for a 1600 bed psychiatric hospital for 25 years. Stories!!!! I could write a book. After 35 years in total, I retired 5 years ago. I still go to the old folks home and play music. Write that book, please?!! Sounds great! And, good for you, for still playing for them. Thanks, very much. I appreciate your input. I've been on Mudcat since late 1998, so if you want to learn more about me there's plenty of postings!:-) kat |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: GUEST Date: 04 Jul 06 - 12:07 AM For comforting the dying, I learned a tremendous amount from this website: Handbook for Mortals Both my parents learned a lot from the website before they died too. They found it very helpful to know what to expect. My mom was in a nursing home for a long time before she died, and was also a musician. She was a singer, and stayed involved with the choir up until her diagnosis with lung cancer. After that, she started to withdraw. By her last few months, she didn't want music or tv or any noise beyond talking voices, really. At first that seemed terribly sad to me. But when I worked up the nerve to ask her about it, she said she didn't really miss it. She said silence was just more comforting and peaceful to her. It was from the website above I learned that was OK, even though I thought it sad she didn't want to hear music. I'm not trying to discourage you in any way. My mom LOVED IT when musicians came in to perform. But not when she was actually dying. So, you may have better luck with the long term nursing home residents, than those in hospice. People in hospice aren't working on getting better. For them, death is the healing part, so they have a very different set of needs. That's not to say everyone who is dying won't want music! I just think you need to realize that not everyone will necessarily consider music soothing. It really agitated my mom in end stage, although she didn't mind tv in the background. My dad didn't want anything--not radio, music, tv, nothing. He didn't communicate much either, even though he could, and he understood us and communicated right up to the last dying breath he took. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Janie Date: 04 Jul 06 - 12:26 AM Kat, I'm going to guess that you will not need crdentials in enough situations for it to be of significant concern, at least in the near future. I suspect you are truly gifted at walking beside someone going through experiences that have the potential to be fraught with distress. I imagine the expression of the succor you are open to give through your music will be 'good medicine.' I really value the discerning conversation going on in this thread. Thank you to all. Janie |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: GUEST Date: 04 Jul 06 - 12:47 AM Such a good person. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: GUEST Date: 04 Jul 06 - 01:49 AM Sorry, I meant to also provide a link to the homepage of the website where 'Handbook for Mortals' resides. I bought the book, but the Growth House website that houses it is just phenomenal. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: AllisonA(Animaterra) Date: 04 Jul 06 - 06:15 AM Kat-me-luv, what a blessing you could be! Go for it! All the information folks have given here is very compassionate and helpful. But in the end, you can trust yourself and your own musicianship and caring heart. Play it, sister! |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: GUEST Date: 04 Jul 06 - 11:22 AM Get paid up front. |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Beer Date: 04 Jul 06 - 12:27 PM Hi Kat. Thanks for understanding. I was a little apprehensive in responding in the way I did, but I think it was important to know you a little better. I'd have no problem in hiring you or having you volunteer. Go for it. Two weeks ago I was at a gathering where by a new name signed up to come up on stage and do three numbers. This was the longest three tunes we had to back up. This person couldn't carry a tune in a piss pot (Have no idea where this saying began.). When he was finished the audience gave him a rounding applause. And that is how monsters are created. He now believes he has a great voice and will be back again next month. This is why a pre-screening should take place. Some may disagree with me on this. But that is O.K. Again all the best. Beer |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: wysiwyg Date: 04 Jul 06 - 12:31 PM Suggest you form contacts with whoever in your nearest area is in charge of CPE, Clinical Pastoral Education. You might get a cool internship and cert from that-- or if not, REAL good contact networking. CPE certification is what a lot of hospital and other clinical staff look for in knowing who is "safe" to allow to come close to the Big Moments. Let me know if I can help with contacts of that sort. ~Susan |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: open mike Date: 08 Jul 06 - 01:22 PM re-freshing... |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Marion Date: 09 Jul 06 - 03:39 AM Good on you, Kat. From my experiences, volunteers at nursing homes or hospitals have more hoops to jump through than the paid entertainers. You'll probably need references, a police check, a TB screening, and proof of a flu shot (in season). Also, the institutions often want a volunteer commitment of at least six months, and often want you to do an orientation session. Marion |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Jack the Sailor Date: 09 Jul 06 - 03:00 PM Check out this Kat. Wren has lots of info. http://p067.ezboard.com/facousticguitartalktalktalkfrm12 |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Sorcha Date: 09 Jul 06 - 04:59 PM Well, I'm a crap harpist...but I played it for my FiL the day we left town to come home.....he was dying of lymphoma......we got half way home, Mom called and said he had just died... |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: katlaughing Date: 09 Jul 06 - 06:56 PM Thanks, Marion, for the info. From what my doc said and what I've found at hospices, I don't think I'll run into that many problems, but it's good to be aware. Jack, thanks. That looks like a great site! Good for you, Sorcha...didn't know you'd got a harp?! |
|
Subject: RE: Therapeutic Music for the ill and dying From: Kaleea Date: 10 Jul 06 - 07:11 PM Having been a Music Educator & Church Musician for many years, and also working as an activities/social services director at nursing homes/Sr. residences, it is quite normal for me, also, to play for nursing homes-which led to playing for the dying. One of the most important things I learned is to respect the needs of the person re their Music preferences & Religious preferences. It's all about their needs, not yours. As an Activities/Soc Services Director, if I ever heard any visitors "witnessing" to a very ill/dying resident, I would take the visitor aside, & sometimes have tossed them out--screaming to a resident/patient about burning in hell is never appropriate. I'm happy to play or sing whatever they want to hear, as long as I know it. I'll play Classical or Celtic (or whatever), and I'll sing most anything from Western Swing to Ave Maria in Latin. [Only if asked to, I'll pray with them any prayers, Protestant, Catholic, Jewish or other. If asked, I'll read to them from any scripture printed in English.] I never presume that people want to hear hymns or any other specific Music. I never presume that a person wants to chat, or have a chatty person around them. Some people are not verbally responsive, but one can learn to be quite observant of others. Sometimes you can speak to the family members to ask about Music preferences, but sometimes no family is available. When in doubt, instrumental is a good place to start. If you have the opportunity to be a regular volunteer at a specific nursing home, you can get to know the bed patients quite well by playing for them on a regular basis. You can often find out about their preferences from staff members as well as from playing for them over time. When their time is short, the staff often knows & can tell you, and this is the best case scenario for being able to provide comfort with appropriate Music. It really helps if you are willing to learn some of the songs of their eras. Many people, however, will prefer only soft instrumental. My preferred instruments to play for the ill & dying are Harp, Autoharp, & Mountain Dulcimer or Guitar fingerstyle. If you play Mountain Dulcimer, try fingerpicking for a harp-like tone. Remember our Veterans Hospitals & homes, too. |
| Share Thread: |