What Music Can Offer in the way of Caregiving
Caregiving can be a very difficult and trying experience regardless of the circumstances. There are many methods and procedures for taking care of another human being, particularly if they are having difficulties taking care of themselves or require assistance. One of the music-related procedures that some people may utilize is, of course, music therapy, which uses music to achieve a non-music related goal (for example helping a person with autism speak, or helping a person with Alzheimer’s recall life events using a musical stimulus). But how can music actually help in more effective Caregiving?
Part of the answer is incorporating music into ones’ Caregiving to aid the patient. This can be done in a multitude of ways not just aiding in recollection or a behavior related task. Music can be used to calm or excite a person. Music can be beneficial to the caretaker as well for some of the same reasons. In relaxing the caregiver, he or she is able to provide better care for the patient because of reduced stress. In addition to being able to relax the caregiving, music can also act as a bridge between the caregiver and the patient (or person being taken care of, depending on the relation between the two individuals). In that regard, both parties may be able to converse or participate in an activity together that they may not otherwise make had music not been used.
Even in nursing facilities music can be of great help. Singing together, for example, can help form a community and foster a bond and commonality. Music can help through all stages of life, from before birth till moments before passing. Music liberates the mind and provides sanctity, clarity, and sanctuary even in this trying and sometimes crazy world we call home.