In-patient hospice: A qualitative study with Portuguese patients, family and staff. Issue 5 (27th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hilário, Ana Patrícia
• Is Part Of: Death studies. Volume 40:Issue 5(2016)
• Page Start: 290
• Page End: 297
• Publication Date: 2016-05-27
• Subjects: Death -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; Death -- Moral and ethical aspects -- Periodicals; 306.9
• DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2015.1132283
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0748-1187

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The present study aims to provide insights on the role of in-patient hospices, which are sometimes described as disconnecting spaces. Researchers complement participant observation with in-depth interviews with 10 hospice patients, 20 family members, and 20 members of hospice staff. The findings suggest that the hospice provides a space where patients could enjoy the company of their loved ones without concerns regarding the dying process. The study reveals that the hospice offers a proper alternative to the home setting even in countries characterized by a strong familialistic culture like Portugal.