How palliative care can help with spiritual concerns

Provided by: Healthwise
Not yet rated

Your palliative care team may include a spiritual advisor or chaplain. Spiritual advisors can help you with questions that do not have clear answers. It does not matter what your spirituality or religion is. Your beliefs will be honored and respected.

You may want to talk to a spiritual advisor about:

  • The meaning of your life.
  • Ways to find hope and to celebrate your life.
  • Questions such as “What have I accomplished?”, “Why now?”, or “Why me?”
  • Your ideas or beliefs about death.
  • Your faith community.
  • Your wishes or plans for your memorial or funeral.

Spiritual advisors can be a great source of comfort for you and your loved ones, both during your illness and after you are gone.

If you are interested in talking to a spiritual advisor, be sure to tell your doctor.

Credits

Author Jeannette Curtis
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Denele Ivins
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Shelly R. Garone, MD
- Palliative Care
Last Updated December 27, 2007
Last Updated: 12/27/2007

© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.

Was this article helpful?
Tell us what you think.

Be the first to rate!
liked it no thanks

Filter By:

In the Spotlight

Dealing With An Emergency

Do you know proper first aid techniques? Different emergency situations require different plans of action.

Learn more »

Yahoo! Groups

Join the Conversation:

Join a Yahoo! Group and discuss topics with other members of the group.

Start a Health Support Group »

Tell us what you think about Yahoo! Health - Send us your feedback