Asked about me

8/27/2016

I learned on my next visit to Hospice House that Len had asked a nurse about me after I left the week earlier.

He told her he heard the music, turned off his tv volume and cracked the door himself in an effort to better listen to the songs I was singing.

I was surprised about the nurse's information about Len. I had no idea that the music could be heard through his closed door, especially with the tv going. Televisions in patient rooms often go non-stop. Do you think tv is a good idea for the ill and dying? Why or why not?

6 Comments

Joanne Wallis

2/11/2016 09:28:33 am

Having witnessed many situations where "ill or dying" patients are subject to non-stop TV, I would say that you, as the caregiver in any role (music therapist, CNA, nurse, etc.), should be checking in with the patient to see if they actually want the TV. At one time, my mother was subject to non-stop TV and as a result she gave up one of her most loved activities--reading. Under a more flexible environment (watching TV as she chooses) she is now the local "librarian" because she reads incessantly.

Robin Gaiser

2/12/2016 06:00:13 pm

Joanne, your mother's loss of a favorite reading pastime is tragic. Our mother's age group would not think to ask for the tv to be turned off if staff had turned it on. I am grateful she has her reading back!

In most cases, I ask patients if I may lower volume or turn off the tv so they can enjoy, hear music I offer. You would be shocked at how many either cannot even respond or tell me they never wanted it on in the first-place. And I think many do not know or cannot remember how to manipulate controls. Especially women whose husbands have "owned" the remote. Like mine!

Pam McGill

2/11/2016 02:14:13 pm

My mother was in the hospital when she died. I placed the TV on the relaxation music channel and I believe that helped with her transition as she did not want me to talk to her. I believe she was "doing her work". I feel that a TV with just chatter, etc is not appropriate, but that's just my opinion.

Robin Gaiser

2/12/2016 06:05:35 pm

Pam, I am so glad the hospital had the relaxation music available. It is such a great relief for patient (and family) when talking is not tolerated during active dying.

I had to ask for the tv channel through which I could find that music (and the nature photos) when I was at Mission. Often it is not easily located, and in my case even some of the nursing staff had to ask where it was. They found it and it was just what I needed to de-stress and heal.

Bob Jacobson link

2/13/2016 03:58:19 pm

Will you have a CD to go with the book and if not will there be a CD available?

robin

2/14/2016 08:43:41 pm

Hi BOB,

There will be CDs available that I previously recorded that employ therapeutic music. At this point there is a CD in the planning stage to go specifically with this book. Will keep you posted.

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