Music as an Intervention in Hospitals

Music as a therapeutic intervention is a development largely of the mid 20th century, however, it has existed in various forms in most cultures for many centuries. In recent years the use of music as an intervention has increased and this, to some extent, may reflect the growing interest in complimentary therapies.3 Music has been used for patients of all ages, from infants, children, adults to older adults, and pre-procedural/operative and post-procedural/operative intervention to reduce anxiety or pain. Music is often used in conjunction with other activities such as education programs, videos and relaxing messages.3