Frank Sinatra's "My Way," Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" and Tina Turner's "(Simply) The Best" were named some of the most popular songs chosen by people nearing the end of their lives.
Marie Curie, a foundation that provides support and expert hospice care in the UK, have compiled a playlist of music chosen by terminally ill people to accompany them in their final moments.
According to the charity, music can play a “vital role in end-of-life care for many.” In a poll conducted by Marie Curie, 84% of the of 10,500 adults polled believe music relaxed and calmed their loved ones, with six in 10 adding that it had helped ease anxiety and emotional distress.
Music is said to help patients by distracting them from experiencing symptoms such as pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance.
In a statement, Dr. Tracey McConnell, a music therapy expert and honorary Marie Curie senior research fellow at Queen’s University Belfast, said. “Terminal illness, pain and the fear of dying can result in feelings of powerlessness and isolation, even with close family and friends. Music therapy can help people express their feelings and make them feel better, whatever their health or emotional situation.”
Here is the full list of the most popular end-of-life songs: