May 21, 2024Up to four in five people who die could have benefitted from palliative care – or around 300 to 360 people every day in Australia. These numbers are increasing every year as our population ages and health needs become more complex; between 2020 and 2050, demand for palliative care is projected to double. Unfortunately, many people who would benefit from palliative care miss out – especially but not only in rural and regional areas.
National Palliative Care Week (NPCW) 2024, held from Sunday 19 May to Saturday 25 May 2024, is Australia’s largest annual initiative to raise awareness about palliative care, increase understanding of its services, and recognise the skill, dedication and ‘heart’ of the palliative care workforce and volunteers.
“Approximately half of us die in residential aged care facilities, highlighting how important it is that we support our colleagues working in these areas,” says Dr Alison Giles, Head of Palliative Care.
Our multidisciplinary palliative care staff at Northern Health, including the Palliative Care Unit and Palliative Care Consult teams, work together to provide high quality health care and support for people living with a life-limiting illness, as well as their families.
This year the palliative care service is delighted to welcome Dr Lucy Forrest, Music Therapist, to the team. Supported by a grant from the Palliative Care Consortium, Dr Forrest’s work transcends clinical boundaries, weaving melodies into the fabric of care.
Research underscores the profound effects of music on our wellbeing. Physiologically, it can soothe frayed nerves, ease pain, and reduce anxiety. Emotionally, it connects us to memories and provides solace. In the realm of palliative care, music becomes a lifeline — a bridge between the hospital room and the outside world.
Natalia Dewiyani, Spiritual Care Coordinator says, “When people are in grief, which we often see in palliative care wards, music can offer calmness and serenity more than words can do.”
“I have witnessed the therapeutic benefit of having Lucy’s talent and skill as a music therapist and also her calming presence.”
Dr. Forrest believes that music transforms spaces. Whether a bustling ward or a quiet bedside, her harp strings resonate with healing energy. Familiar tunes evoke memories, offering moments of reflection.
Her presence is a balm for patients and families. Amidst sadness and heartbreak, her therapeutic harmonies bring positivity and peace. For one patient, it’s a personal concert—a gift unexpected, yet deeply moving:
“On a busy evening shift recently, I heard a sound I was drawn to. I was not the only one. There in a corner was Lucy magically making the harp sing! Staff stopped and listened for themselves, however the main thrill was knowing that our patients were listening also.”
“Later that evening, I witnessed Lucy playing for a patient who was laying quietly in her bed. The look on the patient’s face was priceless – her own special concert!” recounts Registered Nurse, Barbara Watson.
It’s not just about calming melodies. “I have had feedback from families who have found Lucy’s music offers them peace, both for themselves, and peace in the knowledge that their loved one who is dying would also find Lucy’s music calming at such a difficult time,” says Reverend Melanie Moore, Anglican and Palliative Care Chaplain.
Dr. Forrest sums it up beautifully: “Music brings beauty, calm, joy, and creativity. Knowing it touches someone’s soul — that’s the heart of my job.”
If you would like to learn more about Palliative Care, you can visit the Palliative Care Australia website. Information about the Northern Health Palliative Care service, as well as resources for clinicians caring for patients with palliative care needs, is available on the Northern Health intranet.
Featured image: Dr. Lucy Forrest, Music Therapist.
