Effectiveness of music therapy, aromatherapy, and massage therapy on patients in palliative care with end-of-life needs: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Music therapy, aromatherapy and massage therapy are widely used in palliative care in patients near end-of-life with the aim to reduce symptom burden and improve quality of life (QoL). Recent research shows an increase in popularity and use of complementary and integrative medicine however a more thorough evidence base about their usefulness is required.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the available evidence on the use of music therapy, aromatherapy and massage therapy in palliative and hospice care and summarize findings.

Methods: A defined search strategy was used in reviewing literature from two major databases, MEDLINE and Embase for the period between 2010 and 2022. Studies were selected for further evaluation based on intervention type and relevancy. After evaluation using quality assessment tools, findings were summarised, and potential benefits were identified.

Results: Out of 1261 studies initially identified, 26 were selected for further evaluation. Sixteen evaluated music therapy, four aromatherapy and massage therapy. The most represented outcomes were pain, anxiety, well-being and QoL. Many studies demonstrated a short-term benefit in symptom improvement. Qualitative studies showed that these complementary methods are highly valued.

Conclusion: Main results found that music and massage therapy had the most potential benefits on a range of outcome parameters, including pain and QoL. Future studies may consider using more qualitative and/or mixed methods to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of treatment.

Keywords: Complementary and integrative methods; Quality of Life (QoL); end-of-life; palliative care.