🎵 Bringing Joy One Song at a Time
At Ridgewood Senior Living in Smithville, there’s a special kind of medicine making its rounds, and it doesn’t come in a bottle.

Karen Melita, Music Therapist with NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, uses the power of music to brighten days, spark memories, and lift spirits. Whether it's a favorite tune from years gone by, a familiar hymn, or a lively singalong, music has a remarkable way of reaching people in ways words sometimes cannot.
For individuals living with memory loss or dementia, music can unlock cherished memories, reduce anxiety, encourage communication, and provide moments of connection with loved ones. Music therapy has also been shown to improve mood, promote relaxation, and support overall emotional well-being.
Karen sees these moments every day. A resident who hasn't spoken much suddenly sings every word to a favorite song. A smile appears. Fingers tap along to the beat. Families share treasured memories sparked by familiar melodies.
At NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, we're proud to offer music therapy as well as massage therapy as part of our individualized care approach. In fact, only a handful of hospice organizations provide these specialized services, helping patients find comfort, relaxation, and peace during their care journey.
Because at NJHealth, we believe hospice care is about creating meaningful moments, preserving dignity, and helping people live each day as fully as possible.
And sometimes, it all starts with a song. Click here to see the magic of music therapy.





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