Music Therapy in the Hospital

At Princess Margaret Hospital in Ontario, Canada, a program of alternative and complimentary therapies is being start. Pet therapy, massage, art therapy and movement therapy are quite popular in hospitals around the world. Considerable research has been done on these modalities, all with excellent results. The therapeutic benefits of music are also well noted. According to the Canadian Association for Music Therapy, music's nonverbal, creative and emotional qualities can facilitate a therapeutic relationship between patient and caretaker. Discussion of selected lyrics or rhythms that represent a patient's experience promotes wellness and improves communication. Certain techniques including song-writing, improvisation and song selection mirror patient thought-processes and solidify feelings about their illness. While music therapy is available in the atrium each Wednesday, the palliative care program at Princess Margaret Hospital hopes to launch music therapy this fall for individual patients on the inpatient unit.
A debilitative state of fatigue is among the most common side effects experienced by upwards of 72 per cent of all cancer patients undergoing treatment. To help patients reap the benefits of recreational activities, Princess Margaret Hospital will be meeting with recreational therapy practitioners to establish a recreational therapy program that will engage patients and compliment cancer treatment.
Therapies that address all issues felt by palliative patients along their journey are an integral part of the next generation in cancer treatment. Complementary therapy is gaining power alongside medical advancements thanks to Princess Margaret Hospital's leading example of research translating into clinical settings.