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Keller BP, Akard TF, Boles JC. Legacy in paediatrics: A concept analysis. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:948-957. [PMID: 37921200 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM To provide an analysis of legacy and legacy-oriented interventions in paediatric healthcare. DESIGN Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis. METHODS Using Walker and Avant's method, three defining attributes of the concept were determined, followed by antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of legacy. RESULTS In paediatrics, legacy is co-authored in relationships, has the capability to outlive the person or event it represents, and elicits the essence of a person or experience. Receiving legacy-oriented interventions are not a prerequisite for having a legacy, nor is death. CONCLUSION Engaging in purposeful, individualized legacy-oriented interventions can improve coping in paediatric patients, families, and providers. By understanding the concept of legacy, providers are better equipped to provide care honouring the unique personhood, relationships, and strengths of children and families in even the most dire circumstances. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE Understanding the scope and purpose of legacy in paediatrics assists providers in improving patient- and family-centred outcomes by designing interventions that facilitate long-term coping in patients facing a loss of or significant change in health, normalcy, or life. IMPACT Legacy-oriented interventions are provided at most children's hospitals in the United States, yet no widespread consensus on foundation or scope has been determined. This concept analysis provides evidence-based guidelines for policy and practice in creating legacy for and with children, providing opportunities to improve quality of care for young patients and their families around the world. REPORTING METHOD N/A. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briana P Keller
- Vanderbilt University Peabody College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Terrah F Akard
- Vanderbilt University Graduate School, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jessika C Boles
- Vanderbilt University Peabody College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Liu TH, Vernon-Cwik A, Tun S. Examining a Novel Legacy Activity for Elders: Oral Histories as Produced Stories. Palliat Med Rep 2024; 5:25-33. [PMID: 38249833 PMCID: PMC10797308 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2023.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Many African American elders who participated in The Great Migration are in the latter years of their lives. One way to maintain their memories and those of elders at large is through legacy activities, projects that initiate a life review process resulting in a product surviving after an individual's death. However, literature on culturally attuned legacy activities as well as measurement of impact are limited. Objectives This project sought to introduce a novel legacy activity for elders-the oral history as produced aural self-story-detailing its creation and examining its therapeutic efficacy. Design Setting and Subjects Nine African American elders who experienced The Great Migration receiving care from an urban, geriatric clinic were recruited. Oral histories were conducted, produced into aural self-stories, and examined with follow-up interviews and a project evaluation survey. Qualitative analysis of the follow-up interview and a project evaluation survey were used to ascertain therapeutic outcomes. Results : All participants recommended the project and found self-story listening meaningful or beneficial. Qualitative interviews produced 13 codes; the five most frequent were reflection/contemplation (n = 18), sentimentality/positive affect and affirmation/enlightenment (n = 10), as well as empathy/gratitude and curiosity/intrigue/peculiarity (n = 7). Conclusion : Our project suggests that aural self-stories produced from oral histories enhance the current elder legacy activity landscape by facilitating meaning and existential affirmation, additionally leaving a product for subsequent generations. Future studies include comparison to existing legacy interventions and project examination in additional elder populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony H. Liu
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Sandy Tun
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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McAndrew NS, Gray TF, Wallace L, Calkins K, Guttormson J, Harding ES, Applebaum AJ. Existential distress in family caregivers: scoping review of meaning-making interventions. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e676-e685. [PMID: 37604657 PMCID: PMC11040498 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Family and friend caregivers often feel overwhelmed by and ill-prepared for their responsibilities. Many feel helpless living with uncertainty about the outcome of the patient's illness, which leads to existential distress. Supportive care interventions that address existential distress by promoting meaning and purpose buffer the negative effects of caregiver burden and promote resilience and growth. The purpose of this scoping review is to describe the depth and breadth of available interventions targeting caregiver existential distress. METHODS We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review methods and applied the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension checklist. SCOPUS, Ovid MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases were searched for interventions that targeted existential distress by promoting meaning-making, spiritual well-being, post-traumatic growth and/or benefit finding for caregivers of seriously ill adult patients. RESULTS We screened 1377 titles/abstracts and 42 full-text articles. Thirty-one articles (28 unique studies) met inclusion criteria. Most interventions were designed for caregivers supporting patients with cancer (n=14) or patients receiving palliative care (n=9). Promising interventions included Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy for Cancer Caregivers, Meaning-Based Intervention for Patients and their Partners, Legacy Intervention for Family Enactment, Family Participatory Dignity Therapy and Existential Behavioural Therapy. More than half of the studies (n=20, 64%) were in the feasibility/acceptability/pilot stage of intervention testing. CONCLUSION Large randomised controlled trials with more diverse samples of caregivers are needed. Future research should explore the impact of delivering meaning-making interventions to caregivers throughout the illness trajectory. Developing strategies for scaling up and conducting cost analyses will narrow the research and practice gap for meaning-making interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie S McAndrew
- School of Nursing, College of Health Professions & Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Patient Care Research, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin, Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Tamryn F Gray
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lyndsey Wallace
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kelly Calkins
- College of Nursing, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jill Guttormson
- College of Nursing, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Eric S Harding
- Medical College of Wisconsin Libraries, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Allison J Applebaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Neller SA, Cloyes KG, Edelman LS, Wong B, Baines B, Towsley GL. Preparing for the Future While Living in the Present: Older Adults' Experiences Creating a Legacy of Values. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2023; 63:1488-1496. [PMID: 36842069 PMCID: PMC10581374 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnad019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES A legacy of values (e.g., legacy letter) is a nonlegal way to intentionally communicate intangible assets (e.g., values, life lessons, and emotional and supportive instruction) with others. There is scant research on legacy creation outside of a palliative care context, and no studies have explored the experiences of community-dwelling older adults creating a legacy of values. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS As part of an exploratory sequential mixed methods study, we conducted semistructured interviews with older adults (N = 16) who had previously created a legacy of values. We analyzed transcribed interviews using an interpretive descriptive approach. We iteratively coded interviews deductively with sensitizing concepts identified in the literature (existential well-being, end-of-life preparation and completion, generativity, and resilience), and inductively, based on participants' descriptions. Codes were categorized by patterns of motivations, content, outcomes, and meaning, and thematically summarized. RESULTS We conceptualized the overall experience of creating a legacy of values as Preparing for the Future While Living in the Present and identified 4 themes: Preserving the Intangible for You and for Me, Sharing What I Want You to Know, Obtaining Peace through Reflection and Preparation, and Living into a Continuing Legacy. Participants attained peace, realized their life was not complete, and were challenged to live intentionally through legacy creation. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Creating a legacy of values may concurrently prepare older adults for the end of life and the remainder of life. These findings offer insight into a generative act that can promote intentional living among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Neller
- College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kristin G Cloyes
- School of Nursing, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Linda S Edelman
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Bob Wong
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Barry Baines
- Hennepin Health Care Hospice of the Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gail L Towsley
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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Neller SA, McFarland MM, Edelman LS, Towsley GL. Leaving a lasting legacy: A scoping review of ethical wills. Palliat Support Care 2023; 21:127-145. [PMID: 35509204 PMCID: PMC9636071 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522000451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Palliative care guidelines recommend an interdisciplinary approach to address patients' awareness of mortality and need for end-of-life preparation. An ethical will is a nonlegal way to address mortality by communicating a lasting and intangible legacy of values to others. The aim of this scoping review is to clarify the operationalization of ethical wills across disciplines and map the purposes and outcomes of creating an ethical will. METHODS We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. We searched 14 databases in November 2019 and January 2021 without filtering publication date or type. Two reviewers independently screened 1,948 publications. We extracted frequently used terms describing content, audience, format, purpose, and outcomes identified in ethical will creation. RESULTS Fifty-one publications met inclusion criteria. Six (11.7%) were research articles. Twenty-four (47.1%) were lay literature published within law, estate, and financial planning. Collectively, our included studies defined an ethical will as a nonlegal way to express values, beliefs, life lessons and experiences, wisdom, love, history, hope for the future, blessings, apology, or forgiveness using any format (e.g., text, audio, video) that is meant to be shared with family, friends, or community. The most common purposes were to be remembered, address mortality, clarify life's meaning, and communicate what matters most. Creation provided opportunity to learn about self, served as a gift to both writer and recipient, and fostered generativity and sense of symbolic immortality. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our findings highlight interdisciplinary utilization and a lack of research of ethical wills. This review provides supportive evidence for ethical wills as a way for patients to address mortality, renew intergenerational connections, solidify self, and promote transcendence before their final days. Ethical wills have potential to be incorporated into interdisciplinary palliative care in the future to address psychological symptoms for patients anticipating the end of life.
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Lawrence A, Jones M, Boles J. Helping Children Cope with Loss: Legacy Interventions for the Grieving Classroom. CONTINUITY IN EDUCATION 2022; 3:92-100. [PMID: 38774289 PMCID: PMC11104402 DOI: 10.5334/cie.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Early experiences of death and loss have a significant impact on children's coping and development across the lifespan, whether the deceased was a family member, friend, or even classmate. Given the sense of community and continuity that children often garner in schools, teachers are uniquely positioned to tailor and facilitate grief supports to meet the developmental and coping needs of their students in response to loss, especially in the case of a classmate's death. Legacy building interventions, though healthcare-derived, have internationally been applied to promote self-expression and meaning making for grieving children and families; the underlying theory and practice of such interventions may render them useful even in classroom environments. Combining art-based activities with storytelling and reflection, legacy building activities may promote awareness and understanding of death in children and adolescents while encouraging adaptive grief responses. This paper describes how teachers may apply legacy building interventions to support students experiencing the death of a classmate. Two sample curricular plans are provided, one targeted towards elementary school children, the other towards middle and high school students. Although these resources appear ready for immediate implementation, it is essential that teachers adapt them - based on their unique classroom, school system, and sociocultural context - to best meet the needs of grieving students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maile Jones
- Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, US
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Chan WCH, Yu CTK, Kwok DKS, Wan JKM. Prevalence and factors associated with demoralization in palliative care patients: A cross-sectional study from Hong Kong. Palliat Support Care 2022:1-9. [PMID: 36052852 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although demoralization is common among palliative care patients, it has not yet been examined empirically in the Hong Kong Chinese context. This study aims to examine (1) the prevalence of demoralization among community-dwelling palliative care patients in Hong Kong; (2) the percentage of palliative care patients who are demoralized but not depressed and vice versa; and (3) the association of socio-demographic factors, particularly family support, with demoralization. METHOD A cross-sectional study targeting community-living palliative care patients in Hong Kong was conducted. A total of 54 patients were recruited by a local hospice and interviewed for completing a questionnaire which included measures of demoralization, depression, perceived family support, and demographic information. RESULTS The prevalence of demoralization was 64.8%. Although there was overlap between demoralization and depression (52.8% meeting the criteria of both), 7.5% of depressed patients were not demoralized, and 13.2% of demoralized patients were not depressed. Participants who were not single and had more depressive symptoms and less family support had a significantly higher demoralization level. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This is the first study which reports the prevalence of demoralization in Hong Kong. Demoralization was found common in community-living palliative care patients receiving medical social work services in Hong Kong. This study provides evidence of the importance of differentiating the constructs between demoralization and depression. It also provides an implication that those who are married, more depressed, and have the least family support could be the most vulnerable group at risk of demoralization. We recommend that early assessment of demoralization among palliative care patients be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallace Chi Ho Chan
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Clare Tsz Kiu Yu
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Denis Ka Shaw Kwok
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Love A, Greer K, Woods C, Clark L, Baker JN, Kaye EC. Bereaved Parent Perspectives and Recommendations on Best Practices for Legacy Interventions. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:1022-1030.e3. [PMID: 35157983 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Many pediatric hospitals offer legacy interventions for families to promote coping and support grief prior to and following the death of a child. Despite this practice, parent perceptions of the value of legacy activities are not well described, and best practices for offering and creating legacy interventions remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVES To characterize bereaved parents' perspectives on the value of legacy activities; to describe parent recommendations for optimizing provision of legacy activities by child life specialists and music therapists. METHODS In this qualitative study, a purposive sample of 19 bereaved parents of children who died from cancer participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed inductively using content analysis to identify key concepts and emerging themes. RESULTS Analysis of transcripts revealed bereaved parent insights and recommendations across three core themes: 1) the value of legacy items and interventions; 2) the practical roles, uses, and functions of legacy items, and 3) best practices for offering legacy interventions. Bereaved parents sought meaning and purpose in abstract and concrete manifestations of legacy. Parents often used legacy items in specific ways to promote emotional expression and process their grief. Communication, timing, and creativity significantly influenced parent perceptions of legacy-building. Parents recommended individualized assessments to optimize provision of legacy interventions. CONCLUSION Bereaved parents emphasized the meaningfulness of legacy-building activities and the need for an individualized approach when offering these interventions. Future research should explore the perspectives and recommendations of patients and siblings on legacy activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Love
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN , USA
| | | | - Cameka Woods
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN , USA
| | - Lisa Clark
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN , USA
| | - Justin N Baker
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN , USA
| | - Erica C Kaye
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN , USA.
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Xu T, Qin Y, Ou X, Zhao X, Wang P, Wang M, Yue P. End-of-life communication experiences within families of people with advanced Cancer in China: A qualitative study. Int J Nurs Stud 2022; 132:104261. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2022.104261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Reel CD, Allen RS, Lanai B, Yuk MC, Potts DC. Bringing Art to Life: Social and Activity Engagement through Art in Persons Living with Dementia. Clin Gerontol 2022; 45:327-337. [PMID: 34100338 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2021.1936737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Bringing Art to Life (BATL) program was created as an art therapy intervention to increase social engagement, intergenerational engagement, and creative expression among persons living with dementia (PWD) in an adult day service. This is an evaluation of BATL program efficacy. METHODS A modified behavioral observation tool was used to quantify meaningful engagements as recorded in ethnographic field notes and test the hypotheses that: 1) engagements increase across art therapy sessions, and 2) engagements were more social than activity or art related. RESULTS The increase in engagement across session was not significant. However, social engagements (M = 9.61, SD 4.6) were more prevalent than art engagements (M = 5.23, SD = 3.1) in each session (t(99) = 9.52,). A thematic analysis of social interactions recorded in the ethnographic field notes revealed themes related to reminiscence. CONCLUSIONS The quantitative and qualitative data supported the BATL program as effective in engaging participants in social interaction and art activities. Specifically, quantitative data showed participants were engaged in conversations around reminiscence and discussion of creative expression with students. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Intergenerational social interaction between PWD and college students is a critical and meaningful part of the BATL program, and the intervention created a safe space with focused activity through engagement with art, and this facilitated PWD in self-expression, including humor, advice, and legacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice D Reel
- Psychology Department, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
| | - Rebecca S Allen
- Psychology Department, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
| | - Bailey Lanai
- Psychology Department, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
| | - M Caroline Yuk
- Psychology Department, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
| | - Daniel C Potts
- Psychology Department, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, USA
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Abstract
Purpose of Review To present new findings in order to aid in the provision of high-quality symptom management and psychosocial care for adolescents and young adults with advanced cancer at the end of life. Recent Findings Behavioral health providers support patients by teaching them symptom control skills, building legacies, and making meaning of their lives. Integration of cultural values is essential for comprehensive assessment and decision-making. Effective management of physiological symptoms and psychological distress begins with accurate communication about prognosis and goals of care that focus on patient preferences and priorities. Oncology teams promote quality of life and the successful management of fatigue, pain, decreased mobility, poor appetite, and dyspnea with the early inclusion of palliative care. Summary While provision of end-of-life care in a young person with cancer presents challenges, multidisciplinary teams can effectively accompany patients in this journey by prioritizing patient and family preferences to promote quality of life.
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Green G. How End-of-Life Blogs Re-Affirm the "Power to be Oneself". FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2022; 6:775279. [PMID: 35097060 PMCID: PMC8795734 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2021.775279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Powerlessness generally denotes loss of control and may be experienced among those with a terminal diagnosis and, as such, empowerment is a dominant discourse in end-of-life policy in the western Anglo-Saxon world. This paper analyzes thematically blogs authored by three people with a terminal diagnosis to examine the "power to be oneself," a concept which was identified in the "Ethics of Powerlessness" project conducted in the UK. The analysis demonstrates that the bloggers assert the "power to be themselves" which is expressed in three principal ways. Firstly, through assertion of agency to promote self-affirmation and control. Secondly, through claiming a "moral authority" expressed by providing advice not just on illness and death but also on how life should be lived. Thirdly, through discussing ideas about the future and creating a legacy. The blogs are a mechanism used to express and reinforce self-identity and to carve out a "sacred space" between life and death to nurture personal change and to project this onto a public arena. This analysis demonstrates the key role patient empowerment plays in constructing an identity with a terminal diagnosis, an element that is often overlooked in end-of-life policy.
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Collaborative Legacy Building to Alleviate Emotional Pain and Suffering in Pediatric Cancer Patients: A Case Review. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9010033. [PMID: 35053659 PMCID: PMC8774266 DOI: 10.3390/children9010033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Childhood cancer patients experience emotional hardship associated with their life-threatening diagnoses. Interdisciplinary team members working in pediatric cancer care can help alleviate physical pain and psychological suffering of children by facilitating collaborative legacy-building activities with patients and families. The contents of this article aim to support legacy building as a medium for emotional healing prior to the end of life. The authors use a case review to contextualize legacy-building projects and provide a comprehensive overview of methods and considerations for these initiatives.
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Oluyase AO, Higginson IJ, Yi D, Gao W, Evans CJ, Grande G, Todd C, Costantini M, Murtagh FEM, Bajwah S. Hospital-based specialist palliative care compared with usual care for adults with advanced illness and their caregivers: a systematic review. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr09120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Most deaths still take place in hospital; cost-effective commissioning of end-of-life resources is a priority. This review provides clarity on the effectiveness of hospital-based specialist palliative care.
Objectives
The objectives were to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of hospital-based specialist palliative care.
Population
Adult patients with advanced illnesses and their unpaid caregivers.
Intervention
Hospital-based specialist palliative care.
Comparators
Inpatient or outpatient hospital care without specialist palliative care input at the point of entry to the study, or community care or hospice care provided outside the hospital setting (usual care).
Primary outcomes
Patient health-related quality of life and symptom burden.
Data sources
Six databases (The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO and CareSearch), clinical trial registers, reference lists and systematic reviews were searched to August 2019.
Review methods
Two independent reviewers screened, data extracted and assessed methodological quality. Meta-analysis was carried out using RevMan (The Cochrane Collaboration, The Nordic Cochrane Centre, Copenhagen, Denmark), with separate synthesis of qualitative data.
Results
Forty-two randomised controlled trials involving 7779 participants (6678 patients and 1101 unpaid caregivers) were included. Diagnoses of participants were as follows: cancer, 21 studies; non-cancer, 14 studies; and mixed cancer and non-cancer, seven studies. Hospital-based specialist palliative care was offered in the following models: ward based (one study), inpatient consult (10 studies), outpatient (six studies), hospital at home or hospital outreach (five studies) and multiple settings that included hospital (20 studies). Meta-analyses demonstrated significant improvement favouring hospital-based specialist palliative care over usual care in patient health-related quality of life (10 studies, standardised mean difference 0.26, 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.37; I
2 = 3%) and patient satisfaction with care (two studies, standardised mean difference 0.36, 95% confidence interval 0.14 to 0.57; I
2 = 0%), a significant reduction in patient symptom burden (six studies, standardised mean difference –0.26, 95% confidence interval –0.41 to –0.12; I
2 = 0%) and patient depression (eight studies, standardised mean difference –0.22, 95% confidence interval –0.34 to –0.10; I
2 = 0%), and a significant increase in the chances of patients dying in their preferred place (measured by number of patients with home death) (seven studies, odds ratio 1.63, 95% confidence interval 1.23 to 2.16; I
2 = 0%). There were non-significant improvements in pain (four studies, standardised mean difference –0.16, 95% confidence interval –0.33 to 0.01; I
2 = 0%) and patient anxiety (five studies, mean difference –0.63, 95% confidence interval –2.22 to 0.96; I
2 = 76%). Hospital-based specialist palliative care showed no evidence of causing serious harm. The evidence on mortality/survival and cost-effectiveness was inconclusive. Qualitative studies (10 studies, 322 participants) suggested that hospital-based specialist palliative care was beneficial as it ensured personalised and holistic care for patients and their families, while also fostering open communication, shared decision-making and respectful and compassionate care.
Limitation
In almost half of the included randomised controlled trials, there was palliative care involvement in the control group.
Conclusions
Hospital-based specialist palliative care may offer benefits for person-centred outcomes including health-related quality of life, symptom burden, patient depression and satisfaction with care, while also increasing the chances of patients dying in their preferred place (measured by home death) with little evidence of harm.
Future work
More studies are needed of populations with non-malignant diseases, different models of hospital-based specialist palliative care, and cost-effectiveness.
Study registration
This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42017083205.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 9, No. 12. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adejoke O Oluyase
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Deokhee Yi
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Wei Gao
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Catherine J Evans
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Gunn Grande
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Chris Todd
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Massimo Costantini
- Palliative Care Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale – Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (USL-IRCCS), Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Fliss EM Murtagh
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Sabrina Bajwah
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
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15
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Patinadan PV, Tan-Ho G, Choo PY, Low CX, Ho AHY. 'Food for Life and Palliation (FLiP)': a qualitative study for understanding and empowering dignity and identity for terminally ill patients in Asia. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e038914. [PMID: 33849845 PMCID: PMC8051415 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With 'eating' posited as Singapore's domestic pastime, food experiences for Singaporeans constitute national, social, ethnic and personal identities. However, though they form significant parts of Singaporean existence across the lifespan, studies and observations about food experiences for individuals at the end of life remain noticeably absent. Extant literature continues to focus on nutritional practice during illness and the active dying process, forgoing the rich lived experiences of food in the lives of patients and their families. The current work sought to qualitatively extricate through a constructivist phenomenological approach, the 'food voices' of Singaporean palliative care patients and their families. It also simultaneously aimed to assess the role of food in bolstering their subjective feelings of dignity and identity, while also considering resultant clinical implications. SETTING Homes of patients within the Singaporean palliative care setting. PARTICIPANTS A subset of qualitative data (n=25) in the form of dyadic interviews with terminally ill patients and a family caregiver was generated from a larger family dignity intervention study that explored the experience of living and dying among Asian palliative care patients and their families. RESULTS Framework analysis with both inductive and deductive approaches informed by the a priori domain of food resulted in the generation of four major themes, each with three subthemes. These were organised into the Food for Life and Palliation model. They include: (1) feeding identity and familial bonds, (2) liminal subsistence in illness transition, (3) food becoming lineage, and (4) compassionate nourishment. CONCLUSIONS Clinical implications are considered; including food-focused interventions that enhance dignity, promote meaning-making and facilitate legacy construction. Developmental suggestions are also directed at industry partners producing end-of-life nutrition products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Andy Hau Yan Ho
- Psychology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- The Palliative Care Centre for Excellence in Education and Research (PalC), Singapore
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16
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Schuelke T, Crawford C, Kentor R, Eppelheimer H, Chipriano C, Springmeyer K, Shukraft A, Hill M. Current Grief Support in Pediatric Palliative Care. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:278. [PMID: 33916583 PMCID: PMC8066285 DOI: 10.3390/children8040278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Grief support changes as more is learned from current grief theory and research. The authors provide a comprehensive overview of current grief support as it relates to Pediatric Palliative Care (PPC). The following aspects of grief are addressed: (1) anticipatory grief: the nondeath losses that occur with a complex and chronic illness, as well as the time leading up to death; (2) grief around the time of death: the intense and sacred experience of companioning with a dying child; (3) grief after death: supporting bereavement and mourning through programing and other methods; (4) innovative approaches: the future of grief support. The contents of this article are meant to support and educate programs currently providing grief services and those aiming to begin the meaningful work of grief support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taryn Schuelke
- Department of Pediatric Palliative Care, Texas Children’s Hospital, 6621 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.C.); (K.S.)
| | - Claire Crawford
- Department of Pediatric Palliative Care, Texas Children’s Hospital, 6621 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.C.); (K.S.)
| | - Rachel Kentor
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Psychology Service, Texas Children’s Hospital, 6701 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Heather Eppelheimer
- Memorial Hermann Pediatric Hospice, 902 Frostwood Suite 288, Houston, TX 77024, USA;
| | | | - Kirstin Springmeyer
- Department of Pediatric Palliative Care, Texas Children’s Hospital, 6621 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77030, USA; (C.C.); (K.S.)
| | - Allison Shukraft
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Advanced Care Team, Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital, MEB 415-F, 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203, USA;
| | - Malinda Hill
- Justin Michael Ingerman Center for Palliative Care, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
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17
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Boles JC, Jones MT. Legacy perceptions and interventions for adults and children receiving palliative care: A systematic review. Palliat Med 2021; 35:529-551. [PMID: 33487090 DOI: 10.1177/0269216321989565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legacy has been invoked as a means for strengthening human attachments, continuing bonds, and ensuring that individuals will be remembered; however, little is known about the spectrum of approaches to, outcomes associated with, and best practices for legacy interventions. AIM To systematically review research on legacy perceptions and interventions in pediatric and adult palliative care recipients. DESIGN A systematic mixed studies review synthesizing quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods study findings using PRISMA guidelines. DATA SOURCES PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases were searched on October 1, 2020. GRADE criteria were used to assess quality of quantitative reports, and the Johns Hopkins Evidence Level and Quality Guide was used to rate qualitative, mixed methods, and review articles. Data were synthesized using integrative thematic analysis. RESULTS The 67 studies reviewed describe a variety of legacy perceptions and interventions with adult and pediatric patients receiving palliative care. Statistically significant improvements in various dimensions of wellbeing are documented, with significant reduction in incidence and symptoms of depression in adults. Studies highlight the utility, feasibility, and perceived benefits of legacy interventions according to adult patients and their caregivers, and parents/caregivers of pediatric patients. CONCLUSIONS Though future research with high-quality, experimental designs is needed, the positive outcomes associated with legacy interventions are documented in adult patient populations; additionally, the application of legacy interventions for children with serious illnesses receiving palliative care is reasonable based on the existing body of evidence. A consistent and operational concept of legacy is still needed for future research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessika C Boles
- Child Life Department, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Maile T Jones
- Child Life Department, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, USA
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18
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DeSanto-Madeya S, Tjia J, Fitch C, Wachholtz A. Feasibility and Acceptability of Digital Legacy-Making: An Innovative Story-Telling Intervention for Adults With Cancer. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2020; 38:772-777. [PMID: 33167669 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120971569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examined the feasibility, burden and acceptability of a legacy-making intervention in adults with cancer and preliminary effects on patient quality-of-life (QOL) measures. METHOD We conducted a Stage IB pilot, intervention study. The intervention was a digital video legacy-making interview of adults with advanced cancer to create a digital video of their memories and experiences. Baseline and post-video QOL assessments included: Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G), Patient Dignity Inventory (PDI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Emotional Thermometers for distress, anxiety, anger, help and depression. Participants received a final copy of the digital video for distribution to their families. RESULTS Adults (n = 16) ages 38-83 years old with an advanced or life-limiting cancer diagnosis completed an intervention. Feasibility and acceptability was strong with 0% attrition. While the pilot study was not powered for quantitative significance, there were changes from baseline to post-intervention in the participants' total or subscale FACT-G scores, PDI, HADS anxiety or depression scores, and Emotional Thermometer scores. CONCLUSIONS A digital video legacy-making intervention is feasible for adults with cancer without significant negative outcomes for individuals completing the study. It remains unclear whether this intervention contributes to positive quality of life outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Tjia
- 12262University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Christina Fitch
- 12262University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Amy Wachholtz
- 12262University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.,1878University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, USA
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19
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Schaefer MR, Wagoner ST, Young ME, Madan-Swain A, Barnett M, Gray WN. Healing the Hearts of Bereaved Parents: Impact of Legacy Artwork on Grief in Pediatric Oncology. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:790-800. [PMID: 32360992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Approximately 12% of children with cancer will not survive, representing a devastating loss for parents. Strategies to improve parental coping and grief have been understudied. Although legacy-making is frequently offered as standard care to children with terminal illness and their families, these interventions have received little empirical attention. OBJECTIVES This study qualitatively explores the legacy-making and grief experiences of bereaved parents who participated in legacy artwork with their child before his or her death from cancer. METHODS Twelve bereaved parents and 12 healthcare providers participated in individual semistructured interviews guided by the Dual Process Model of Grief and Continuing Bonds theory. Qualitative data were analyzed via conventional content analysis. RESULTS Five themes emerged. Legacy artwork allows for family bonding and opens communication regarding the child's impending death; provides opportunities for parents to engage in life review and meaning-making; is often displayed in the parents' home after the child's death, and parents take comfort in using these projects to continue their bond with their deceased child; can ameliorate parents' grief after their child's death; and may reduce healthcare providers' compassion fatigue and provide them an outlet for coping with their patients' deaths. CONCLUSION Participating in legacy artwork may result in self-reported positive outcomes for bereaved parents before and after their child's death, including family bonding, enhanced communication, meaning-making, and improvements in grief. As a result of these benefits, children's hospitals may consider offering legacy artwork for children with cancer and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan R Schaefer
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA.
| | - Scott T Wagoner
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Margaret E Young
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Avi Madan-Swain
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Michael Barnett
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Wendy N Gray
- Department of Pediatric Psychology, Children's Hospital of Orange County, Orange, California, USA
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20
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Bajwah S, Oluyase AO, Yi D, Gao W, Evans CJ, Grande G, Todd C, Costantini M, Murtagh FE, Higginson IJ. The effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of hospital-based specialist palliative care for adults with advanced illness and their caregivers. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 9:CD012780. [PMID: 32996586 PMCID: PMC8428758 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012780.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serious illness is often characterised by physical/psychological problems, family support needs, and high healthcare resource use. Hospital-based specialist palliative care (HSPC) has developed to assist in better meeting the needs of patients and their families and potentially reducing hospital care expenditure. There is a need for clarity on the effectiveness and optimal models of HSPC, given that most people still die in hospital and also to allocate scarce resources judiciously. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of HSPC compared to usual care for adults with advanced illness (hereafter patients) and their unpaid caregivers/families. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, CDSR, DARE and HTA database via the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE; Embase; CINAHL; PsycINFO; CareSearch; National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database (NHS EED) and two trial registers to August 2019, together with checking of reference lists and relevant systematic reviews, citation searching and contact with experts to identify additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the impact of HSPC on outcomes for patients or their unpaid caregivers/families, or both. HSPC was defined as specialist palliative care delivered by a palliative care team that is based in a hospital providing holistic care, co-ordination by a multidisciplinary team, and collaboration between HSPC providers and generalists. HSPC was provided to patients while they were admitted as inpatients to acute care hospitals, outpatients or patients receiving care from hospital outreach teams at home. The comparator was usual care, defined as inpatient or outpatient hospital care without specialist palliative care input at the point of entry into the study, community care or hospice care provided outside of the hospital setting. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We assessed risk of bias and extracted data. To account for use of different scales across studies, we calculated standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for continuous data. We used an inverse variance random-effects model. For binary data, we calculated odds ratio (ORs) with 95% CIs. We assessed the evidence using GRADE and created a 'Summary of findings' table. Our primary outcomes were patient health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and symptom burden (a collection of two or more symptoms). Key secondary outcomes were pain, depression, satisfaction with care, achieving preferred place of death, mortality/survival, unpaid caregiver burden, and cost-effectiveness. Qualitative data was analysed where available. MAIN RESULTS We identified 42 RCTs involving 7779 participants (6678 patients and 1101 caregivers/family members). Twenty-one studies were with cancer populations, 14 were with non-cancer populations (of which six were with heart failure patients), and seven with mixed cancer and non-cancer populations (mixed diagnoses). HSPC was offered in different ways and included the following models: ward-based, inpatient consult, outpatient, hospital-at-home or hospital outreach, and service provision across multiple settings which included hospital. For our main analyses, we pooled data from studies reporting adjusted endpoint values. Forty studies had a high risk of bias in at least one domain. Compared with usual care, HSPC improved patient HRQoL with a small effect size of 0.26 SMD over usual care (95% CI 0.15 to 0.37; I2 = 3%, 10 studies, 1344 participants, low-quality evidence, higher scores indicate better patient HRQoL). HSPC also improved other person-centred outcomes. It reduced patient symptom burden with a small effect size of -0.26 SMD over usual care (95% CI -0.41 to -0.12; I2 = 0%, 6 studies, 761 participants, very low-quality evidence, lower scores indicate lower symptom burden). HSPC improved patient satisfaction with care with a small effect size of 0.36 SMD over usual care (95% CI 0.41 to 0.57; I2 = 0%, 2 studies, 337 participants, low-quality evidence, higher scores indicate better patient satisfaction with care). Using home death as a proxy measure for achieving patient's preferred place of death, patients were more likely to die at home with HSPC compared to usual care (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.23 to 2.16; I2 = 0%, 7 studies, 861 participants, low-quality evidence). Data on pain (4 studies, 525 participants) showed no evidence of a difference between HSPC and usual care (SMD -0.16, 95% CI -0.33 to 0.01; I2 = 0%, very low-quality evidence). Eight studies (N = 1252 participants) reported on adverse events and very low-quality evidence did not demonstrate an effect of HSPC on serious harms. Two studies (170 participants) presented data on caregiver burden and both found no evidence of effect of HSPC (very low-quality evidence). We included 13 economic studies (2103 participants). Overall, the evidence on cost-effectiveness of HSPC compared to usual care was inconsistent among the four full economic studies. Other studies that used only partial economic analysis and those that presented more limited resource use and cost information also had inconsistent results (very low-quality evidence). Quality of the evidence The quality of the evidence assessed using GRADE was very low to low, downgraded due to a high risk of bias, inconsistency and imprecision. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Very low- to low-quality evidence suggests that when compared to usual care, HSPC may offer small benefits for several person-centred outcomes including patient HRQoL, symptom burden and patient satisfaction with care, while also increasing the chances of patients dying in their preferred place (measured by home death). While we found no evidence that HSPC causes serious harms, the evidence was insufficient to draw strong conclusions. Although these are only small effect sizes, they may be clinically relevant at an advanced stage of disease with limited prognosis, and are person-centred outcomes important to many patients and families. More well conducted studies are needed to study populations with non-malignant diseases and mixed diagnoses, ward-based models of HSPC, 24 hours access (out-of-hours care) as part of HSPC, pain, achieving patient preferred place of care, patient satisfaction with care, caregiver outcomes (satisfaction with care, burden, depression, anxiety, grief, quality of life), and cost-effectiveness of HSPC. In addition, research is needed to provide validated person-centred outcomes to be used across studies and populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Bajwah
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adejoke O Oluyase
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Deokhee Yi
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Wei Gao
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Catherine J Evans
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Gunn Grande
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Chris Todd
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Fliss E Murtagh
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
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21
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Dang M, Noreika D, Ryu S, Sima A, Ashton H, Ondris B, Coley F, Nestler J, Fabbro ED. Feasibility of Delivering an Avatar-Facilitated Life Review Intervention for Patients with Cancer. J Palliat Med 2020; 24:520-526. [PMID: 32896200 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Life review, a narrative-based intervention, helps individuals organize memories into a meaningful whole, providing a balanced view of the past, present, and future. Examining how the content of memories contributes to life's meaning improves some clinical outcomes for oncology patients. Combining life review with other modalities may enhance therapeutic efficacy. We hypothesized a life review intervention might be enhanced when combined with a kinetic, digital representation (avatar) chosen by the patient. Our goal was to determine the feasibility of an avatar-based intervention for facilitating life review in patients with advanced cancer. Methods: We conducted an observational, feasibility trial in a supportive care clinic. Motion capture technology was used to synchronize voice and movements of the patient onto an avatar in a virtual environment. Semistructured life review questions were adapted to the stages of child, teenager, adult, and elder. Outcome measures included adherence, recruitment, comfort of study procedure, patients' perceived benefits, and ability to complete questionnaires, including the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being Scale (FACIT-Sp). Results: Seventeen patients were approached, with 11/12 completing the intervention. The total visit time of a single intervention averaged 67 minutes. The post-intervention survey found all patients agreed or strongly agreed (Likert Scale 1-5) they would participate again, would recommend it to others, and found the experience beneficial. After one month, ESAS scores were either unchanged or improved in 80% of patients. Conclusion: An avatar-facilitated life review was feasible with a high rate of adherence, completion, and acceptability by patients. The findings support the need for a clinical trial to test the efficacy of this novel intervention. Clinical Trial Number NCT03996642.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malisa Dang
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Palliative Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Danielle Noreika
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Palliative Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Semi Ryu
- Department of Kinetic Imaging School of the Arts, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Adam Sima
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Holly Ashton
- Department of Kinetic Imaging School of the Arts, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Brianna Ondris
- Department of Kinetic Imaging School of the Arts, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Felicia Coley
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - John Nestler
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Egidio Del Fabbro
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Palliative Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Lindt N, van Berkel J, Mulder BC. Determinants of overburdening among informal carers: a systematic review. BMC Geriatr 2020; 20:304. [PMID: 32847493 PMCID: PMC7448315 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01708-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The world’s population is ageing, resulting in rising care demands and healthcare costs, which in turn lead to a shift from formal to informal care. However, not only is the number of potential informal carers fast decreasing, but also informal caregivers are experiencing a higher caregiver burden. This literature review aims to synthesize the literature on the common determinants of caregiver burden in Western countries, to help ensure future continuation of informal care in the home context, and to improve or sustain the quality of life of caregivers and patients alike. Method A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles included in PubMed, Scopus, and/or PsychInfo was conducted. Results Seventeen articles were included. The most important predictors were the duration of caregiving and the patient’s dependency level, in terms of both physical and mental dependency stemming from decreased cognitive capacity or behavioural problems. Some specific illnesses and role conflicts or captivity also increased caregiver burden, whereas social support lowered it. Being a female caregiver or having an adult–child relationship led to a higher burden. Conclusions The most important predictors of caregiver burden are the duration of caregiving and the patient’s dependency level. In addition, the patient’s behavioural problems and cognitive capacity determine dependency level, and thus care burden. Interventions to relieve burden need to be adapted to the illness trajectory of specific diseases and corresponding needs for social support for both the recipient and the caregiver. Changing role expectations, leading to men being more involved, could reduce the disproportionately high burden for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke Lindt
- Strategic Communication Group, Wageningen University, Hollandseweg 1, 6706, KN, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jantien van Berkel
- Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Wageningen University, Hollandseweg 1, 6706, KN, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bob C Mulder
- Strategic Communication Group, Wageningen University, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN, P.O. Box 8130, 6700, EW, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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FioRito TA, Geiger AR, Routledge C. Creative Nostalgia: Social and Psychological Benefits of Scrapbooking. ART THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/07421656.2020.1748986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Hesse M, Forstmeier S, Ates G, Radbruch L. Patients' priorities in a reminiscence and legacy intervention in palliative care. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2020; 13:2632352419892629. [PMID: 32215373 PMCID: PMC7065501 DOI: 10.1177/2632352419892629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Reminiscence is used in a range of different interventions in palliative
care, for example, Dignity Therapy or Life Review. However, literature has
focused mainly on the methodology, and little has been published on
patients’ priorities and primary concerns. Objective: This study looks at themes emerging in a reminiscence intervention with
patients confronted with a life-limiting disease. Interviews were audiotaped
and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed using thematic
analysis. Setting/subjects: Seventeen patients who were receiving palliative care at the University
Hospital Bonn participated in interviews reviewing parts or phases of their
lives. Results: Patients expressed satisfaction and a sense of well-being with the
intervention. Major themes emerging in the interviews were the factors
involved in the development and expression of personality, such as
character-forming influences, self-image, self-awareness, and philosophy of
life. Talking about personality was entangled with influences from growing
up, qualification/job, partner/spouse, children, resources, twists of
fate/crossroads, and coping. Conclusion: The topics emerging from the interviews differed from the scope of guiding
questions in common reminiscence methods like Life Review or Dignity
Therapy. The underlying motivation of patients seemed to be the search for
identity and continuity in one’s life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Hesse
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Gülay Ates
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lukas Radbruch
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Malteser Krankenhaus Seliger Gerhard Bonn/Rhein-Sieg, Bonn, Germany
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Santivasi WL, Partain DK, Whitford KJ. The role of geriatric palliative care in hospitalized older adults. Hosp Pract (1995) 2020; 48:37-47. [PMID: 31825689 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2019.1703707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Take-Away Points:1. Geriatric palliative care requires integrating the disciplines of hospital medicine and palliative care in pursuit of delivering comprehensive, whole-person care to aging patients with serious illnesses.2. Older adults have unique palliative care needs compared to the general population, different prevalence and intensity of symptoms, more frequent neuropsychiatric challenges, increased social needs, distinct spiritual, religious, and cultural considerations, and complex medicolegal and ethical issues.3. Hospital-based palliative care interdisciplinary teams can take many forms and provide high-quality, goal-concordant care to older adults and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wil L Santivasi
- Center for Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Daniel K Partain
- Center for Palliative Medicine & Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Kevin J Whitford
- Center for Palliative Medicine & Division of Hospital Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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26
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Washington KT, Oliver DP, Benson JJ, Rolbiecki AJ, Jorgensen LA, Cruz-Oliver DM, Demiris G. Factors influencing engagement in an online support group for family caregivers of individuals with advanced cancer. J Psychosoc Oncol 2019; 38:235-250. [PMID: 31690247 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2019.1680592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To explore factors that influenced engagement in an online support group (OSG) for family caregivers of hospice patients with cancer.Design: Secondary qualitative data analysis.Sample: 58 family caregivers of hospice patients with advanced cancer.Methods: Template analysis of individual family caregiver interviews.Findings: Emotional isolation and caregiving downtime positively influenced engagement, while reluctance to share personal information, a short timeframe of participation in the OSG, and caregiving commitments were negatively influential. While the group facilitation and secure privacy settings of the OSG were viewed positively, reactions to the OSG platform and group tone were mixed. Information on pain and the dying process was found to be particularly engaging.Practice implications: Providers offering OSGs for family caregivers should maximize factors that promote meaningful member engagement, responding to changes in activity and tone over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla T Washington
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Debra Parker Oliver
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Jacquelyn J Benson
- Development of Human Development and Family Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Abigail J Rolbiecki
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Lucas A Jorgensen
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Dulce M Cruz-Oliver
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - George Demiris
- Department of Biobehavioral and Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Laskow T, Small L, Wu DS. Narrative Interventions in the Palliative Care Setting: A Scoping Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2019; 58:696-706. [PMID: 31216430 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2019.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT This scoping review maps the existing literature on narrative interventions within a palliative care and end-of-life context. OBJECTIVES A scoping review was performed to address the following research question: What observational or randomized controlled trials have been performed to evaluate narrative interventions in the palliative care setting? METHODS A search across multiple electronic databases was performed. The search results were screened. Relevant articles were reviewed for the identification of common themes and challenges. RESULTS After reviewing 495 citations from electronic searches, and 44 articles from author archives or from manual review of article reference lists, we identified 34 articles for inclusion. Narrative interventions have focused on reflection or communication, and have been studied among providers, students, patients, and caregivers. Only patient/caregiver studies used randomized controlled design. Most studies were small and at the level of evaluating feasibility. Challenges include a high degree of heterogeneity among interventions and heterogeneity among parameters for evaluating those interventions. CONCLUSION Narrative interventions are actively being evaluated with the intention of improving communication and well-being among all parties within the palliative care and end-of-life experience. The field would benefit from selecting a subset of outcomes that are comparable across studies, and a common framework for describing narrative interventions. Scant literature exists regarding narrative interventions to assist providers in communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Laskow
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lauren Small
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - David S Wu
- Palliative Care Program, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Ingersoll-Dayton B, Kropf N, Campbell R, Parker M. A systematic review of dyadic approaches to reminiscence and life review among older adults. Aging Ment Health 2019; 23:1074-1085. [PMID: 30596457 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2018.1555696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This paper describes a systematic review of quantitative and qualitative studies that examine the effectiveness of dyadic approaches to life review and reminiscence. Methods: The search process began with 1,056 potentially eligible articles and, after a multi-step screening process, led to 20 full-text articles for review. Results: The resulting studies (ten quantitative, nine qualitative, and one mixed-method) comprised six different kinds of dyadic approaches. There are a combination of benefits and problems associated with dyadic life review and reminiscence approaches. Conclusions: This review provides initial understanding of the impact of life review and reminiscence when care recipients and caregivers participate in the intervention together. Future clinical studies on dyadic approaches to life review and reminiscence should provide clearer descriptions of their protocols, include more consistent measures (incorporating in-the-moment measures), and involve populations of healthy older adults and their partners as well as those with cognitive impairment. The inclusion of qualitative studies helps interpret the diverse results reported in the quantitative studies and highlights key themes related to participating in dyadic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Kropf
- b Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Ruth Campbell
- c Turner Geriatric Clinic, Medical Center , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
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Clabburn O, Knighting K, Jack BA, O'Brien MR. The use of digital legacies with people affected by motor neurone disease for continuing bonds: An interpretative phenomenological analysis study. Palliat Med 2019; 33:812-822. [PMID: 31023181 DOI: 10.1177/0269216319845805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor neurone disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease without cure. Little is known about how young people are affected when a family member has the illness and subsequently dies, resulting in a gap in understanding of how best to support them. One psychotherapeutic approach involves creating a legacy to pass onto the young person, but little research has investigated the use of an emerging format, digital legacies, where videos document a person's life, memories and achievements. AIM To investigate the views, perceptions and experiences of digital legacies with people affected by motor neurone disease. DESIGN A qualitative study underpinned by interpretative phenomenological analysis. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS People living with motor neurone disease (n = 4) and bereaved young people (n = 3) in the United Kingdom. Open-ended interviews were conducted in person. Ethical approval was granted by a University ethics committee. RESULTS Five key themes emerged exemplifying mutual challenges and benefits for people with motor neurone disease and bereaved young people. Creating a digital legacy provides a sense of purpose for people with motor neurone disease and a way to convey personality and life experiences. Bereaved young people can modify disease-related memories of the person and gain comfort from hearing and seeing videos. CONCLUSION This study expands the existing continuing bonds model of grief to include an 'autobiographical chapter', creating 'The Model of Reciprocal Bonds Formation'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Clabburn
- Evidence-Based Practice Research Centre, Faculty of Health & Social Care, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
| | - Katherine Knighting
- Evidence-Based Practice Research Centre, Faculty of Health & Social Care, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
| | - Barbara A Jack
- Evidence-Based Practice Research Centre, Faculty of Health & Social Care, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
| | - Mary R O'Brien
- Evidence-Based Practice Research Centre, Faculty of Health & Social Care, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, UK
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Pedrozo Campos Antunes T, Souza Bulle de Oliveira A, Hudec R, Brusque Crocetta T, Ferreira de Lima Antão JY, de Almeida Barbosa RT, Guarnieri R, Massetti T, Garner DM, de Abreu LC. Assistive technology for communication of older adults: a systematic review. Aging Ment Health 2019; 23:417-427. [PMID: 29451399 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2018.1426718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Describe the use of assistive technology to enhance communication opportunities for older adults. METHODS A systematic review was conducted in two databases, PubMed and Web of Science, by using two different searches in each. The search was limited to original articles, in English language, including people aged 60 years and older that used any type of assistive technology for communication. The articles found in the initial search were filtered by title, abstracts and the remaining articles were fully read. RESULTS Eighteen studies were included in this review after the reading of full-texts. Most of the studies included apparently healthy participants with communication limitations due to aging related changes and the others included people with some pathology that prevent them from normal communication. CONCLUSION Four categories of assistive technology were identified: assistive technology for people with speech problems; robot or videoconferencing systems; Information and Communication Technologies and, other types of assistive technology for communication, such as hearing aids and scrapbooks. Assistive technology for communication of older adults is not only used by people with disabilities that prevent them from usual communication. They are mostly for older adults without a pathological communication problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaiany Pedrozo Campos Antunes
- a Laboratório de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica da Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. Santo André , Sao Paulo , Brazil.,b Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Department of Multimedia and Information-Communication Technology, University of Zilina, Zilina , Slovakia
| | | | - Robert Hudec
- b Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Department of Multimedia and Information-Communication Technology, University of Zilina, Zilina , Slovakia
| | - Tania Brusque Crocetta
- a Laboratório de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica da Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. Santo André , Sao Paulo , Brazil.,d Faculty of Management Science and Informatics, Department of Mathematical Methods and Operations Research, University of Zilina, Zilina , Slovakia
| | | | - Renata Thais de Almeida Barbosa
- a Laboratório de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica da Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. Santo André , Sao Paulo , Brazil
| | - Regiani Guarnieri
- a Laboratório de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica da Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. Santo André , Sao Paulo , Brazil
| | - Thais Massetti
- e Departamento De Pós-graduação em Ciências da Reabilitação , Universidade de São Paulo , Brazil
| | - David M Garner
- f Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Cardiorespiratory Research Group, Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , United Kingdom
| | - Luiz Carlos de Abreu
- a Laboratório de Delineamento de Estudos e Escrita Científica da Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. Santo André , Sao Paulo , Brazil.,g Faculty of Public Health , University of Sao Paulo , Sao Paulo , Brazil.,h Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , USA
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Schaefer MR, Spencer SK, Barnett M, Reynolds NC, Madan-Swain A. Legacy Artwork in Pediatric Oncology: The Impact on Bereaved Caregivers' Psychological Functioning and Grief. J Palliat Med 2019; 22:1124-1128. [PMID: 30892150 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Legacy-making (i.e., a way for patients with terminal illness to create or do something for others as a means of remembrance) is rising in popularity in palliative medicine, although only one study has examined its impact in a pediatric population. Objective: In response to the gaps in literature, this study (1) examines the impact of legacy artwork on bereaved caregivers' psychological functioning and grief and (2) compares caregivers' perceptions of support provided by the hospital throughout their child's cancer journey between the intervention and control groups. Methods: Forty-four caregivers whose children died of cancer completed a demographic questionnaire specifically created for this study, the Brief Symptom Inventory-18, and the Prolonged Grief Disorder-13. They also answered questions regarding supportive services provided to them toward the end of the child's life, at the time of death, and after the child's death. Those caregivers who endorsed participating in legacy artwork were identified as the intervention group, whereas those who did not were classified as the control group. Results: There were no significant differences in psychological functioning among caregivers who participated in legacy artwork versus those who did not participate. However, caregivers who created legacy artwork with their child reported significantly less symptoms of prolonged grief and a greater perception of support from health care providers compared with caregivers who did not engage in this activity. Conclusion: Although preliminary, these findings suggest that legacy artwork may have the potential to improve grief and overall satisfaction of support from the hospital in bereaved caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah K Spencer
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Michael Barnett
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | - Avi Madan-Swain
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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32
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Dealing with Palliative Care Patients’ Incomplete Music Therapy Legacies: Reflexive Group Supervision Research. J Palliat Care 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/082585970902500307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Legacies encompass treasured memories and items such as wills, publications, and songs, which help to validate lives. Legacy creation is encouraged by palliative care staff to help patients deal with loss and find personal meaning; the legacy works may also support the bereaved. Within the literature, however, there is no consideration of how staff deal with patients’ incomplete legacies when patients relocate, deteriorate, or die. Our research focuses on this question: What experiences did four music therapists have with palliative care patients’ incomplete tangible music therapy legacies? Data included transcripts from the therapists’ discussions about patients’ incomplete legacies in three reflexive group supervision sessions and further reflections written during transcript verification. Inductive thematic analysis yielded five themes: the nature of incomplete music therapy legacies; reasons for and feelings about these legacies; factors determining what music therapists do with them; considerations about their future “life”; and the ways therapists’ shared reflections can support their future legacy work.
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33
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Ha JH, Kwak M, Han JW, Lee HJ, Ingersoll-Dayton B, Spencer B, Kim KW. The effectiveness of a couple-based intervention for people living with mild Alzheimer's disease and their spousal caregivers in Korea. DEMENTIA 2018; 20:831-847. [PMID: 30470154 DOI: 10.1177/1471301218811547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES We evaluated the effectiveness of a Korean version of the Couples Life Story Approach (CLSA-K), a structured life-review program originally developed in the U.S. to help older adults with dementia and their spousal caregivers engage with each other and improve their quality of life.Research design and methods: Fifty mild people living with mild Alzheimer's disease and their spouses were recruited and 37 couples completed the five-week CLSA-K program. Data on psychosocial outcomes-i.e., depressive symptoms, talkativeness, mutuality (for both caregivers and care recipients) and burden (for caregivers)-were collected one week prior to (Time 1) and one week after the intervention (Time 2). Using repeated measures generalized linear models, we examined the differences in the amounts and patterns of the changes in outcomes according to age, gender, and the care-recipients' level of cognitive impairment. RESULTS Some participants benefited from the CLSA-K program, while others did not. For caregivers, mental health, and marital quality remained stable, while caregiver burden increased among those with spouses who had moderate levels of cognitive impairment. For care-recipients, younger and male participants showed increased talkativeness. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS CLSA-K appears to be promising for specific subgroups of participants in Korea. Multi-component or other approaches may be more beneficial for other couples. Cultural differences as well as social positions may play a role in the acceptability and efficacy of the couple-based intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Hwa Ha
- Department of Social Welfare, Seoul National University, Korea
| | - Minyoung Kwak
- Department of Social Work, The 26451Chinese University of Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Ji Won Han
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, 65462Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Korea
| | - Hyeon Jung Lee
- Department of Anthropology, Seoul National University, Korea
| | | | - Beth Spencer
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, USA
| | - Ki Woong Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, 65462Seoul National University Bundang Hospital; Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Seoul National University; Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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Collins A. “It’s very humbling”: The Effect Experienced by Those Who Facilitate a Legacy Project Session Within Palliative Care. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2018; 36:65-71. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909118787772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The creative arts can be utilized within palliative care to facilitate the creation of a legacy project, an object which will reflect the unique experiences and interests of the creator. This can be bestowed to a loved one, thereby providing an opportunity to leave something tangible behind. However, there is a paucity of evidence exploring the impact experienced by those who facilitate the legacy generation session. Methods: “From The HEart” is a volunteer operated program that offers creative arts based legacy projects to palliative care patients. Five volunteers were interviewed to understand their personal experiences. Emphasis was placed on any perceived positive or negative impact from this work, and if a self-care program would be required. Interviews were transcribed verbatim into a textual document which was coded by the principal investigator using inductive content analysis to derive overarching themes. Results: Five themes emerged from the data: “providing a benefit”, “internal validation”, “it's all been positive”, “self-awareness”, and “if you need support”. All facilitators reported positive experiences, which provided internal validation or confirmation that this work was personally significant to this group. Self-care practises emerged as important, but group activities would only be warranted if requirements couldn't be meet through individual self-care practises. Significance of Results: This study provides confirmation that facilitators do not report any negative experiences while assisting a palliative care client in creating a legacy project. These activities can provide meaning while working in the field of palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Collins
- Peace Arch Hospice, Peace Arch Hospital, White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
- White Rock–South Surrey Division of Family Practice, White Rock, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Care, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Telling life stories: a dyadic intervention for older Korean couples affected by mild Alzheimer's disease. Int Psychogeriatr 2018; 30:1009-1018. [PMID: 29108522 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610217002423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED ABSTRACTBackground:Dementia has negative consequences for both persons with dementia and their family caregivers. Dyadic interventions in which both groups participate together have shown an effective and promising approach. The Couples Life Story Approach (CLSA) that was recently developed for older couples dealing with dementia in the USA was adapted and implemented for the older Korean population in this study. The purpose of this paper is to understand how older Korean couples dealing with dementia experienced the CLSA. METHOD Fifty six couples (n = 102) completed the five-week intervention from December 2013 to October 2015. The participants completed a survey including open-ended questions one week after finishing the intervention. A thematic content analysis was conducted to analyze the responses. RESULTS Qualitative analysis revealed benefits and challenges in the experience of CLSA. Themes related to benefits were: (1) emotional benefits of reminiscing; (2) positive evaluation of life as a couple; (3) gratitude toward spouse; (4) changes in communications or activities with spouse; and (5) changes in relationship quality. Couples' experience varied, with some having mixed feelings about the intervention. Challenges perceived by participants included revival of bitterness and identification of loss. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest the CLSA contributes to enhancing the quality of life for couples affected by Alzheimer's disease and improving their relationship. Challenges that emerged in the CLSA will guide future research to identify the sub-population that is appropriate for the couple-oriented intervention in dementia care.
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Fulton JJ, Newins AR, Porter LS, Ramos K. Psychotherapy Targeting Depression and Anxiety for Use in Palliative Care: A Meta-Analysis. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:1024-1037. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J. Fulton
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Amie R. Newins
- Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| | - Laura S. Porter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Katherine Ramos
- Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina
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37
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Portman D, Thirlwell S, Donovan KA. Completing the Bucket List: Leveraging Telemedicine in Oncologic Palliative Care to Support Legacy-Making and Dignity. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 55:e1-e2. [PMID: 29474937 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Portman
- Department of Supportive Care Medicine, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA.
| | - Sarah Thirlwell
- Department of Supportive Care Medicine, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Kristine A Donovan
- Department of Supportive Care Medicine, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
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Mroz EL, Bluck S. In memory: Predicting preferences for memorializing lost loved ones. DEATH STUDIES 2018; 43:154-163. [PMID: 29474111 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2018.1440033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
People's preferences for memorializing loved ones vary and may depend on their personal attitudes and experiences with death. Participants (N = 145) completed the memorializing preferences checklist and measures of personal attitudes and life experiences with death. Factor analysis identified four memorializing preferences. In terms of predicting preferences, greater acknowledgment of death, and having experienced more losses, predicted preference for memorializing through societal tradition, community legacy, and continuing intimacy. Greater death resistance and less closeness to the deceased predicted preference for memorializing through confronting loss. Findings are discussed in terms of the range of preferences for and motivations behind memorializing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Mroz
- a Department of Psychology , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA
| | - Susan Bluck
- a Department of Psychology , University of Florida , Gainesville , Florida , USA
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39
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Wang CW, Chow AY, Chan CL. The effects of life review interventions on spiritual well-being, psychological distress, and quality of life in patients with terminal or advanced cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Palliat Med 2017; 31:883-894. [PMID: 28488923 DOI: 10.1177/0269216317705101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Life review interventions have been used to alleviate psycho-spiritual distress in people near the end of life. However, their effectiveness remains inconclusive. AIM To evaluate the effects of therapeutic life review on spiritual well-being, psychological distress, and quality of life in patients with terminal or advanced cancer. DESIGN A systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. DATA SOURCES Five databases were searched from their respective inception through February 2017 for relevant randomized controlled trials. The effects of therapeutic life review were pooled across the trials. Standardized mean differences were calculated for the pooled effects. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane criteria. RESULTS Eight randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. The pooled results suggested a desirable effect of therapeutic life review on the meaning of life domain of spiritual well-being (standardized mean difference = 0.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.12 to 0.53), general distress (standardized mean difference = -0.32; 95% confidence interval, -0.55 to -0.09), and overall quality of life (standardized mean difference = 0.35; 95% confidence interval, 0.15 to 0.56) when compared to usual care only. Of the three outcomes examined, only the pooled effect on overall quality of life remained statistically significant at follow-ups up to 3 months after the intervention (standardized mean difference = 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.47 to 1.18). CONCLUSIONS Therapeutic life review is potentially beneficial for people near the end of life. However, the results should be interpreted with caution due to the limited number of randomized controlled trials and associated methodological weaknesses. Further rigorously designed randomized controlled trials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong-Wen Wang
- 1 Centre on Behavioral Health, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,2 Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Amy Ym Chow
- 2 Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,3 Department of Social Work and Social Administration, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Cecilia Lw Chan
- 2 Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,3 Department of Social Work and Social Administration, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Suttle ML, Jenkins TL, Tamburro RF. End-of-Life and Bereavement Care in Pediatric Intensive Care Units. Pediatr Clin North Am 2017; 64:1167-1183. [PMID: 28941542 PMCID: PMC5747301 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Most childhood deaths in the United States occur in hospitals. Pediatric intensive care clinicians must anticipate and effectively treat dying children's pain and suffering and support the psychosocial and spiritual needs of families. These actions may help family members adjust to their loss, particularly bereaved parents who often experience reduced mental and physical health. Candid and compassionate communication is paramount to successful end-of-life (EOL) care as is creating an environment that fosters meaningful family interaction. EOL care in the pediatric intensive care unit is associated with challenging ethical issues, of which clinicians must maintain a sound and working understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markita L. Suttle
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital
| | - Tammara L. Jenkins
- Pediatric Trauma and Critical Illness Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
| | - Robert F. Tamburro
- Pediatric Trauma and Critical Illness Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
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Bajwah S, Yi D, Grande G, Todd C, Costantini M, Murtagh FE, Evans CJ, Higginson IJ. The effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of inpatient specialist palliative care in acute hospitals for adults with advanced illness and their caregivers. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 2017:CD012780. [PMCID: PMC6483755 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Bajwah
- Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College LondonDepartment of Palliative Care, Policy and RehabilitationBessemer RoadLondonUKSE5 9PJ
| | - Deokhee Yi
- Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College LondonDepartment of Palliative Care, Policy and RehabilitationBessemer RoadLondonUKSE5 9PJ
| | - Gunn Grande
- University of ManchesterSchool of Health Sciences, and Manchester Academic Health Science CentreJean McFarlane BuildingOxford RoadManchesterUKM13 9PL
| | - Chris Todd
- University of ManchesterSchool of Health Sciences, and Manchester Academic Health Science CentreJean McFarlane BuildingOxford RoadManchesterUKM13 9PL
| | | | - Fliss E Murtagh
- King's College LondonDepartment of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders InstituteLondonUK
| | - Catherine J Evans
- King's College LondonDepartment of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders InstituteLondonUK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- King's College LondonDepartment of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders InstituteLondonUK
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Götze H, Brähler E, Gansera L, Schnabel A, Gottschalk-Fleischer A, Köhler N. Anxiety, depression and quality of life in family caregivers of palliative cancer patients during home care and after the patient's death. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2016; 27:e12606. [PMID: 27859889 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We examined psychological parameters in family caregivers of palliative cancer patients before and after the death of the patients. Caregivers' data about depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), quality-of-life (Short Form-8 Health Survey), and social support (Oslo Social Support Scale) were collected at the beginning of home care (t1) and 2 months after the patient had died (t2). Regression models were employed to examine factors related to depression and anxiety in the bereaved caregivers. We interviewed 72 relatives, who were the primary caregiver of a patient. One-third (31.9%) of caregivers had high anxiety levels and 29.2% had high depression levels (t1, cut-off = 10). At t2, anxiety and depression had decreased significantly. There were no changes in quality-of-life over time. At both points of assessments, quality-of-life was lower than in the general population. Relevant factors for higher anxiety and depression in the bereaved caregivers were high levels of distress at t1, insufficient social support and low physical function. Bereaved caregivers were particularly depressed when they had been the spouse of the patient. Healthcare professionals should consider social isolation of caring relatives both during homecare and afterwards. Thus, it seems to be important to routinely offer support to spouses.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Götze
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - E Brähler
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Universal Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - L Gansera
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, HELIOS Park-Klinikum Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - A Schnabel
- Leipziger Palliativgesellschaft, Palliative Care Service (SAPV), Leipzig, Germany
| | - A Gottschalk-Fleischer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muldentalkliniken, Medical Hospital Wurzen, Wurzen, Germany
| | - N Köhler
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Daveson BA, Smith M, Yi D, McCrone P, Grande G, Todd C, Gysels M, Costantini M, Murtagh FE, Higginson IJ, Evans CJ. The effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of inpatient specialist palliative care in acute hospitals for adults with advanced illness and their caregivers. Hippokratia 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011619.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Daveson
- King's College London; Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute; London UK
| | - Melinda Smith
- King's College London; Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute; London UK
| | - Deokhee Yi
- King's College London; Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute; London UK
| | - Paul McCrone
- King's College London; Institute of Psychiatry; Box P024 De Crespigny Park London UK SE5 8AF
| | - Gunn Grande
- University of Manchester; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work; Jean McFarlane Building Oxford Road Manchester Greater Manchester UK M13 9PL
| | - Chris Todd
- University of Manchester; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work; Jean McFarlane Building Oxford Road Manchester Greater Manchester UK M13 9PL
| | - Marjolein Gysels
- University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam Institute of Social Science Research; Amsterdam Netherlands
| | - Massimo Costantini
- IRCCS Arcispedale S. Maria Nuova; Palliative Care Unit; Reggio Emilia Italy
| | - F E Murtagh
- King's College London; Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute; London UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- King's College London; Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute; London UK
| | - Catherine J Evans
- King's College London; Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute; London UK
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Singer AE, Goebel JR, Kim YS, Dy SM, Ahluwalia SC, Clifford M, Dzeng E, O'Hanlon CE, Motala A, Walling AM, Goldberg J, Meeker D, Ochotorena C, Shanman R, Cui M, Lorenz KA. Populations and Interventions for Palliative and End-of-Life Care: A Systematic Review. J Palliat Med 2016; 19:995-1008. [PMID: 27533892 PMCID: PMC5011630 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2015.0367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Evidence supports palliative care effectiveness. Given workforce constraints and the costs of new services, payers and providers need help to prioritize their investments. They need to know which patients to target, which personnel to hire, and which services best improve outcomes. OBJECTIVE To inform how payers and providers should identify patients with "advanced illness" and the specific interventions they should implement, we reviewed the evidence to identify (1) individuals appropriate for palliative care and (2) elements of health service interventions (personnel involved, use of multidisciplinary teams, and settings of care) effective in achieving better outcomes for patients, caregivers, and the healthcare system. EVIDENCE REVIEW Systematic searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews databases (1/1/2001-1/8/2015). RESULTS Randomized controlled trials (124) met inclusion criteria. The majority of studies in cancer (49%, 38 of 77 studies) demonstrated statistically significant patient or caregiver outcomes (e.g., p < 0.05), as did those in congestive heart failure (CHF) (62%, 13 of 21), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD; 58%, 11 of 19), and dementia (60%, 15 of 25). Most prognostic criteria used clinicians' judgment (73%, 22 of 30). Most interventions included a nurse (70%, 69 of 98), and many were nurse-only (39%, 27 of 69). Social workers were well represented, and home-based approaches were common (56%, 70 of 124). Home interventions with visits were more effective than those without (64%, 28 of 44; vs. 46%, 12 of 26). Interventions improved communication and care planning (70%, 12 of 18), psychosocial health (36%, 12 of 33, for depressive symptoms; 41%, 9 of 22, for anxiety), and patient (40%, 8 of 20) and caregiver experiences (63%, 5 of 8). Many interventions reduced hospital use (65%, 11 of 17), but most other economic outcomes, including costs, were poorly characterized. Palliative care teams did not reliably lower healthcare costs (20%, 2 of 10). CONCLUSIONS Palliative care improves cancer, CHF, COPD, and dementia outcomes. Effective models include nurses, social workers, and home-based components, and a focus on communication, psychosocial support, and the patient or caregiver experience. High-quality research on intervention costs and cost outcomes in palliative care is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam E. Singer
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
| | - Joy R. Goebel
- School of Nursing, California State University, Long Beach, Long Beach, California
| | - Yan S. Kim
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Sydney M. Dy
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Dzeng
- Division of Hospital Medicine, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Claire E. O'Hanlon
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
- Pardee RAND Graduate School, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
| | | | - Anne M. Walling
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jaime Goldberg
- Supportive Care Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Daniella Meeker
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | - Mike Cui
- RAND Corporation, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Karl A. Lorenz
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Ingersoll-Dayton B, Spencer B, Campbell R, Kurokowa Y, Ito M. Creating a duet: The Couples Life Story Approach in the United States and Japan. DEMENTIA 2016; 15:481-93. [PMID: 24627456 PMCID: PMC4410071 DOI: 10.1177/1471301214526726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a global need for interventions that help couples who are dealing with dementia. This paper describes the way in which interventionists from the United States and Japan participated in the development of an intervention for dyads in which one person is experiencing memory loss. The 5-week intervention, the Couples Life Story Approach, helps dyads to reminisce about their life together as a couple, to work on their patterns of communication, and to develop a Life Story Book. Based on an analysis of cases conducted in the United States (n = 20 couples) and Japan (n = 9 couples), this paper highlights the cross-fertilization process that has occurred as interventionists from the two countries have shared their experiences with one another. Using case illustrations, the discussion focuses on the clinical themes that have emerged for couples in the United States and Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mio Ito
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Japan
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Keall RM, Clayton JM, Butow PN. Therapeutic life review in palliative care: a systematic review of quantitative evaluations. J Pain Symptom Manage 2015; 49:747-61. [PMID: 25261637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2014.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Revised: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT There is increasing interest in providing nonpharmacological treatments, including therapeutic life review interventions, to enhance palliative care patients' existential/spiritual domains. OBJECTIVES To review quantitative evaluations of therapeutic life review interventions to assist palliative care patients with prognoses of 6 months or fewer in addressing existential and spiritual domains. METHODS Comprehensive searches of PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, and PsycINFO were undertaken using a validated palliative care search filter in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement. Each publication that met the inclusion criteria was read and classified according to the American Heart Association's Disease Management Taxonomy, Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials, QualSyst, and the Task Force on Psychological Interventions. Intervention procedures and outcomes were described. RESULTS The searches yielded 1768 articles, of which 14 met the inclusion criteria. The articles reported six interventions evaluated once and four interventions evaluated twice, resulting in 10 distinct interventions. The interventions were evaluated in randomized controlled trials (n = 9), single-arm studies (n = 3), and a cohort study (n = 1). Interventions were conducted in one to eight 15-160 minute sessions by psychologists, social workers, and nurses. Attrition rates were 12%-50% because of patient death and deterioration. Participants lived 28-110 days after completion. Significant results were reported in 11 of 14 studies. CONCLUSION There are few studies evaluating therapeutic life review interventions, although results are promising. Further studies are required that use stricter selection criteria to demonstrate efficacy before these interventions are adopted into clinical practice. Further study may include the effect of these interventions on the interventionist and the bereaved family and caregivers in long-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn M Keall
- University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia; HammondCare Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Greenwich, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Josephine M Clayton
- HammondCare Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Greenwich, New South Wales, Australia; Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phyllis N Butow
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-Making, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Daveson BA, Smith M, Yi D, McCrone P, Grande G, Todd C, Gysels M, Costantini M, Murtagh FE, Higginson IJ, Evans CJ. The effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of inpatient specialist palliative care in acute hospitals for adults with advanced illness and their caregivers. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Leow M, Chan S, Fai Chan M. A Pilot Randomized, Controlled Trial of the Effectiveness of a Psychoeducational Intervention on Family Caregivers of Patients With Advanced Cancer. Oncol Nurs Forum 2015; 42:E63-72. [DOI: 10.1188/15.onf.e63-e72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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49
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Allen RS, Azuero CB, Csikai EL, Parmelee PA, Shin HJ, Kvale E, Durkin DW, Burgio LD. "It Was Very Rewarding for Me …": Senior Volunteers' Experiences With Implementing a Reminiscence and Creative Activity Intervention. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2015; 56:357-67. [PMID: 26035882 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnu167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY To describe the experience of recruiting, training, and retaining retired senior volunteers (RSVs) as interventionists delivering a successful reminiscence and creative activity intervention to community-dwelling palliative care patients and their caregivers. DESIGN AND METHODS A community-based participatory research framework involved Senior Corps RSV programs. Recruitment meetings and feedback groups yielded interested volunteers, who were trained in a 4-hr session using role plays and real-time feedback. Qualitative descriptive analysis identified themes arising from: (a) recruitment/feedback groups with potential RSV interventionists; and (b) individual interviews with RSVs who delivered the intervention. RESULTS Themes identified within recruitment/feedback groups include questions about intervention process, concerns about patient health, positive perceptions of the intervention, and potential characteristics of successful interventionists. Twelve RSVs achieved 89.8% performance criterion in treatment delivery. Six volunteers worked with at least one family and 100% chose to work with additional families. Salient themes identified from exit interviews included positive and negative aspects of the experience, process recommendations, reactions to the Interventionist Manual, feelings arising during work with patient/caregiver participants, and personal reflections. Volunteers reported a strong desire to recommend the intervention to others as a meaningful volunteer opportunity. IMPLICATIONS RSVs reported having a positive impact on palliative care dyads and experiencing personal benefit via increased meaning in life. Two issues require further research attention: (a) further translation of this cost-effective mode of treatment delivery for palliative dyads and (b) further characterization of successful RSVs and the long-term impact on their own physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S Allen
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.
| | - Casey B Azuero
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
| | - Ellen L Csikai
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
| | - Patricia A Parmelee
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Department of Psychology, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
| | - Hae Jung Shin
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Gwangmyeong Social Welfare Center, Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggido, Korea
| | - Elizabeth Kvale
- Birmingham-Atlanta Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Veterans Administration Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Daniel W Durkin
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida
| | - Louis D Burgio
- Center for Mental Health and Aging, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Burgio Geriatric Consulting, Allegan, Michigan
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Alcide A, Potocky M. Adult Hospice Social Work Intervention Outcomes in the United States. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK IN END-OF-LIFE & PALLIATIVE CARE 2015; 11:367-385. [PMID: 26654066 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2015.1107806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A descriptive and critical analysis of the available empirical literature on social work psychosocial intervention outcomes for adult hospice patients and caregivers was conducted. The electronic bibliographic databases CINHAL (EBSCO), MEDLINE, ProQuest, EMBASE, Campbell Collaboration, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, The Cochrane Library) were searched. Search criteria were (a) social work interventions, (b) intervention was tested, (c) adult hospice patients and/or caregivers, (d) studies within the United States, (e) and studies between 2004 and 2014. Of the 21 studies that met the initial search criteria, 5 publications met all review criteria. Based on assessment of study results, intervention effect, and quality of evidence, the ADAPT Problem-Solving Intervention (PSI) and the Hospice Caregiver Support Project have some indications of practical effect on caregiver quality of life, anxiety, stress, and problem-solving skills. The Caregiver Life Line (CaLL) intervention had little to no effect on caregiver role stress or coping skills. The few available studies provide foundational insight into the need for the expansion of research efforts to evaluate hospice social work interventions and document the contributions of social work to the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amary Alcide
- a Social Work, Florida International University , Miami , Florida , USA
| | - Miriam Potocky
- b Florida International University , School of Social Research , Miami , Florida , USA
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