Living with deteriorating health can be hard, and being a caregiver to someone with deteriorating health can be exhausting. Caregivers selflessly give their all to ease the hardships and struggles of those in their charge. Giving so much can drain a person mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The constant drain can create a strained relationship between the caregiver and the one in need of care. It can feel like a burden with no solace or succor, but take heart, there is help. Music can help ease the burden and mend the relationship.
Music For Those in Need of Care
Since 1950, music therapy has been helping many people with their health needs, from physical to emotional and mental. Research has found that music can help everything from depression to strokes, even harsh conditions like Parkinson’s Disease. The power of music has even been found to help with Alzheimer’s.
Music has been found to unlock memories, reduce pain and blood pressure, and relieve anxiety. Music has even helped with easing social interactions. Music is easy to add into your daily routine and the benefits are amazing. Studies have been done to explain the impact rhythm, melody, and other components of music have on the human experience.
Music For Caregivers
While the benefits of easing the struggle for the one in need of care may seem amazing, music can reduce stress and strain on caregivers too. Having connection to the person in their charge can empower a caregiver. The connection can bring comfort and strength to a caregiver. This connection can also help others value the person in need of care more.
Caregivers who utilize music are also better able to reduce their own struggles of anxiety, stress, and frustration. The use of music can reduce symptoms of depression and exhaustion. Caregivers who use music have been shown to be able to find more energy and strength.
The Dignity Project is a CD compilation that includes both music and spoken word pieces, aimed at caregivers of adults suffering from disability or illness. Christian author Shelly Beach calls it “a companion for busy caregivers who are often isolated, confused, and heartbroken.”
Music Beyond Medicine
Being a caregiver can be hard, but don’t lose heart. Remember Jesus said “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11: 28-30).
You can do this. As you use music on your journey remember “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6: 24-26). You are not alone.
I never wanted to end up this way
Helpless to help myself
With the simple day to day
I long for the time
When good health was mine
I miss who I used to be
and what I miss the most
is my dignity
When I act hurtful
It’s because I feel ashamed
Broken, in bondage to
This unresponsive frame
I can’t tie my shoes
I can’t brush my hair