Hospice Holistic Services

What are Hospice Holistic Services?

These holistic services add an extra dimension of care to Minnesota Hospice’s commitment to nurturing the body, mind, and spirit. These non-invasive, holistic practices do not replace the medical, social, or spiritual care of the hospice team. Rather, they work with the total care of the interdisciplinary team to promote comfort and wholeness for those who need it.

Trained professionals in their field provide these services and are available, by referral, to home and facility patients throughout the Minnesota Hospice service area.

Our holistic care options include:

Music Therapy

What is Hospice Music Therapy?

Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to meet individual physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs at end-of-life.

Benefits of Music Therapy

Music therapy is used to:

• Reduce physical symptoms of pain, agitation, and shortness of breath
• Address and alleviate feelings of depression, fear, isolation, disorientation, confusion, anxiety, loss of control, loss of independence, and loneliness
• Support spiritual and cultural beliefs and practices
• Improve quality of life
• Provide emotional support to families
• Provide opportunities for meaningful interactions among family members
• Stimulate memories and emotions
• Inspire life review
• Promote relaxation
• Discover meaning in the dying process

Massage

Massage therapy offers gentle, intentional touch to help ease tension, promote relaxation, and support comfort during hospice care. Provided by a licensed massage therapist, each session is tailored to the individual—offering a calming presence and a meaningful sense of peace, both physically and emotionally.

Pet Therapy and Companionship

Sometimes the gentlest comfort comes on four paws. Our certified therapy dog brings calm, joy, and meaningful connection to the people we serve. Whether it’s a quiet visit, a soft nuzzle, or simply being present, pet therapy adds a unique layer of emotional support to hospice care—one that often speaks louder than words.

Visit Volunteers

Visiting volunteers offer presence, not just time. Whether sitting quietly, sharing conversation, or simply being there, these volunteers provide meaningful connection and companionship to patients and families throughout their hospice care.

And more