Spirituality and coping of hospice clients with cancer

Abstract

Research shows how cancer patients go through psychological changes due to fear of dying, pain and the fear of the unknown (Fu-Jin Shih, 2009). However it has been shown through studies that by including spirituality in palliative care, clients may experience a better quality of life, show less signs of depression and anxiety, and cope better with accepting their illness (Baldacchino, 2010). The aims and objectives of this study were to explore how spirituality aided Hospice clients to cope with cancer and to define spirituality. A convenience sample of 10 clients of the Malta Hospice Movement was recruited, as participants in a focus group organised to obtain qualitative data using a specially designed interview schedule. This study is part of a comparative international study between Malta and Norway. Interviews were audiotape recorded, transcribed and analysed using Bumard's (1991) thematic analysis framework. Themes and categories were derived from the data analysis. Four themes emerged namely: Connectedness with God; Relationship with self and others; Finding meaning, fulfilment and purpose in life; Appreciation of arts and crafts. Implications of the results can lead to recommendations to improve coping in Hospice clients. Further research was suggested to further understand the connection between spirituality and coping.