Problem addressed
The last moment, death, is surrounded by a set of rituals that emphasize pain, loss and suffering. It becomes one of the most memorable and changing moments for people: those who are aware that they are leaving and those who stay. In this way, death is still a taboo and something that is not well assimilated and understood in society. There is no conscious education for life where death is intrinsically present.
In fact, probably as a result of the taboos that still persist around death, society does not have any type of social protection that allows a first-degree relative to care for the terminally ill person full-time, as happens, for example, at the birth of children. , in which parents can take time off to care for their newborn. The social abandonment of patients has as main effects the feeling of loneliness of the patient who leaves without being able to feel the comfort of interacting with those who remain. Families have a feeling of impotence and frustration that adds to the pain of the loss itself, with around 50% ending up needing psychosocial and spiritual intervention, both in the anticipatory mourning phase and in the post-mourning phase, with complications that lead to taking medication and depressive situations.
Innovative solution
The main focus of the “Aqui Contigo” project is on the emotional and family dimension, seeking, in one hand, to provide dignity at the end of life, and on the other and, taking care of those who are helping in their process of loss and mourning, which is often long. and painful. It is important to bear in mind that dignity is an important construct, particularly on the deathbed, where unique and singular support can be provided to those who are dying, their caregivers and their family.
Two musicians and a music therapist. The solution involves analyzing each individual situation, stipulating a careful and individualized plan for musical sessions to promote the dignity of people at the end of their lives and, inevitably, extending to the family and all professional caregivers.
Key results and benefits
Based on Oliver Holme's phrase “Heal sometimes, relieve often, and comfort always”, "Aqui Contigo" focused on being with others, in sound and music, which contributes for emotional, social, mental and spiritual well-being. Alleviating pain, fear and loss at the moment of Death and Raise Awareness in the Community about this topic, which still presents itself as taboo, so that it is better accepted and understood. The existence of a calm and safe environment influences a dignified death. People in care palliative and/or terminal conditions, their family members and caregivers must be able to live these moments from a different approach. Mediated by sound and music, it is created a privileged linked space in a mostly non-verbal context, moving a large impact on each person and on society.
The Impact observed for those at the end of life is undoubtedly relevant, we can realize, through surrender to the moment, the reduction of loneliness in the most difficult times that the human being goes through, the appreciation of life in these most delicate moments, the awareness that death is a fact and what is important is to give meaning and dignity to life and how important it is to reduce the fear of death and mitigate the sense of loss.
It was also visible to notice the increase in interaction between family and friends during the process, music was an important mediator of these moments, allowing an aproach that values life and its quality until the last breath. Also through it and the construction of a legacy (music CD, songbook of new compositions, concert) was possible to help overcome sadness and find a source of comfort.
Potential for mainstreaming
In a society that forces people to die alone, outside their home and space, away from their family, and especially away from children, and most of the time in a violent hospital environment, it is important that they are offered a context of comfort and beauty, of dedication and complicity, of well-being and affection, which we know is a privileged tool in music. Some of the vital indicators of the dying person even when they are no longer able to verbalize. Through the look, the facial expressions, breathing, changes in skin temperature, changes in skin hair, reaction to touch, muscle tension, etc... The relaxation of the dying person is visible during the time of intervention and your gratitude for our presence. The presence of fear that disappears. The tranquility that absorbs and surrenders to the moment. Being able to enjoy something that still offers you well-being. A awareness that you are not alone. The strengthening of the family relationship is also visible at this time of sound/musical intervention. The surrender between both, to the feeling, to Love.
The next stage presupposes the continuity of the project and, if possible, the increase of its reach. Arrive to more institutions, end-of-life patients, their caregivers, family members and health professionals. Maintain the relaxation sessions / sound travel with health professionals and family members, as a way of provide comfort, reduce stress and help deal with the emotional burden that comes from being so noble dedication to the other. In this way, we also aim to consolidate our presence with the entities and the positive impact of "Aqui Contigo" to more people and the community in general.
