The legacy of heart failure – A case study on a patient’s experience composing heartbeat-inspired music
Date
2026
Authors
Tan, P.
Lin, A.M.
Zen, J.
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Journal article
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Arts in Psychotherapy, 2026; 98:102426-1-102426-10
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Patsy Tan, Antonina Maria Lin, J. Allyn Zen
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Abstract
The use of amplified cardiopulmonary recordings (ACPR) in music therapy legacy creation is traditionally offered to patients in palliative care. Many studies have also shown positive results especially in pre-bereavement and bereavement work. However, this intervention may also be offered to patients who are dealing with serious and chronic illness who are not nearing the end-of-life as a commemorative item as well as a coping tool for hospitalization journey and beyond. The purpose of this case study was to examine if heartbeat music composition as legacy in music therapy reduces depression and anxiety of the patient and whether it provides meaning and purpose in life to the patient facing probable end-of-life decision. The participant was a 50-year-old Caucasian patient admitted for decompensated cardiac failure along with pulmonary oedema, and cardiorenal syndrome. The participant received 30–45 min individualized music therapy intervention on an average of 3 times per week with a total of 17 sessions between last week of May 2025 to the first week of July 2025. The composition was improvised based on a theme created by the patient and concurrently recorded with the patient’s heartbeat during the session. The heartbeat served as a metronomic background rhythm and the same heartbeat recording used by the therapist during the session was recorded and subsequently layered onto the composition recording for the final audio file presented to the patient and his mother. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) as well as a Music Therapy Survey were used to assess patient’s awareness of music therapy and legacy creation, music therapy and heartbeat composition as well as overall hospital stay experience. Results indicate a reduction in depression and anxiety scores. Survey findings indicate positive experience with music therapy and legacy making intervention. Music therapy alleviate anxiety and enhances relaxation, and heartbeat as legacy in music therapy is a meaningful keepsake and the intervention gives patient a new purpose and meaning in life. These positive experiences have enhanced patient’s overall comfort throughout hospitalization.
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