In our intensive care units today, we do not always know whether it is a final stage of life or not, but it is a very sharp position where music can make a difference, says Eva Bojner Horwitz, professor of music and health at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm.

- By calming, sorting out feelings of stress and worry and creating a safer breath, she says.

All sense of security is preferred

Death right now occupies a much larger place than usual in our general consciousness. Many people know, or have themselves, relatives or friends affected by the coronavirus.

Eva Bojner Horwitz has done research studies on how music is used at hospice in St. Petersburg and believes that music that is easily played through a telephone or respirator with a built-in sound system can make sense and calm in the end of life.

- All sense of security is preferred over ticking machines and alarms that go, says Eva Bojner Horwitz.

Her research shows how the body's "calm and calm hormone" oxytocin is released in the body when we listen to music, which can give an experience similar to human touch. You can also see that listening to music at the end of life can give a so-called "kairos effect".

Must be the right genre and song

At the Royal Academy of Music's website, there is currently guidance on how music can be used by relatives and healthcare personnel. But in order for the music to produce the desired effect, it must be the right genre and the right song choice. But what is "right song" is, as you know, something highly subjective. End into death.

What would you listen to at the end of life?

- I have a very strong feeling for Arvo Pärt, but these types of recommendations are completely personal, says Eva Bojner Horwitz.