Music Therapy Can Spark Memories for Hospice Patients

Emma Powers • December 16, 2021

Recently, I went to northern Kentucky to complete a music therapy assessment with one of our hospice patients. I was greeted warmly by the patient and her daughter, who both shared with me their love of music. The patient lamented that she could no longer sing or play like she used to, but she was eager to hear some of her favorite songs and mouth along with the lyrics when she could. As I played and we "sang" together, her daughter's childhood memories started to come alive. She shared stories about the patient leading sing-alongs in their home, how the patient would sing songs in different voices and how much fun they had together. Before I left, the patient and her daughter shared a song that I had not heard before. We listened to the recording and the patient and daughter sang together. It was a meaningful moment that left tears in the daughter's eyes and a huge smile on the patient's face.


The patient declined quickly and passed away not too long after this visit. It was unexpected, but I was so glad that her daughter had been able to experience those moments of joy with her so close to death. I hope and imagine it will be something she holds onto as she grieves.


Creating those joyful memories for patients and families is one of the most wonderful parts about being a music therapist, and I am so thankful that I can be part of the process.

Integrative Medicine Helps Patient One Day at a Time

By Emma Powers, Music Therapist • September 14, 2026
I recently had the opportunity to work with a patient who was struggling with depression and grief as his illness progressed. As he lost abilities and became more homebound, the hospice team knew he could benefit from additional emotional support. However, he had repeatedly declined visits from the chaplain and social worker.
Massage therapy helps patients feel less alone.

More Than Massage: The Power of Human Connection

By Jeff Zutaut, Massage Therapist • September 14, 2026
Over the years, I've seen how massage therapy can help ease physical discomfort, anxiety, and stress for hospice patients. But one of its most meaningful benefits is something less visible: helping patients feel less alone.
Massage therapy with Bluegrass Care Navigators helped lessen a patients anxiety.

Calming the Nervous System Through Integrative Care

By Jeff Zutaut, Massage Therapist • September 14, 2026
A patient living with Parkinson's disease and advanced prostate cancer was recently referred to our Integrative Medicine team. While his wife was a strong supporter of hospice care, she wasn't aware that Bluegrass Care Navigators also offers integrative medicine therapies such as massage, that complement the medical care for the nursing team.
An adult coloring in a coloring book.

Creativity, Connection, and Compassion: Growing Our Art Companion Program

By Whitney Clay, Integrative Medicine Program Coordinator • September 14, 2026
At Bluegrass Care Navigators, our Integrative Medicine and Volunteer teams have been working together to create new opportunities for meaningful patient connections through art and music. This year, we launched a program that trains volunteers to incorporate creative activities into companionship visits with patients.
Seniors music activity

Bluegrass PACE Care Celebrates National PACE Month with 200+ Participants in Central Kentucky

September 11, 2026
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) empowers seniors to remain independent at home with comprehensive support.
Grieving man sitting in chair with his hands folded and near his chin

How Long Will My Grief Last?

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After a loss, many people ask the universal question: “How long will my grief last?” This is especially true for a first loss. Some people ask for ways to hurry through the grieving process, but there is no shortcut. It is difficult to accept that one has little control, but with grief work, the sense of loss can slowly improve.
The Wilkins family with BCN Home Modfication Occupational Therapist.

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For the Wilkins family, peace of mind came in the form of a handrail.

New Grants Expands Transportation Services for Older Adults in Bluegrass PACE Care

July 24, 2026
Bluegrass Care Navigators has received grant funding from Truist Foundation and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG) to purchase an additional transportation van for Bluegrass PACE participants in Fayette County. The new van will expand Bluegrass PACE Care’s existing transportation fleet, helping meet growing demand and ensuring participants can reliably access the care and services they need.
Northern Kentucky Voluteer Flower Program Participants

Volunteer’s Dedication Helps the NKY Flower Program Bloom

July 9, 2026
The dedication of Bluegrass Care Navigators’ Northern Kentucky Flower Program volunteers was recently recognized at the Garden Club of Kentucky Annual Convention, highlighting the powerful impact of their service to BCN patients. In addition to celebrating 22 awards earned for a wide range of gardening projects throughout Boone County, the Boone County Garden Club was also honored with the prestigious Club of Honor for its outstanding partnership with Bluegrass Care Navigators. This recognition reflects the heartfelt commitment of our volunteers and the meaningful difference they make in our community.
Mom and family find hope through Bluegrass Grief Care

BCN Helps Single Mom Find Hope After Sudden Loss

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Grief arrives without warning. For Crystal Huddle and her children, it came in an instant, through a car accident that took her husband’s life and forever changed their family.