The value of poetry therapy for people in palliative and end of life care

Abstract

Background: People in palliative and end of life care often experience issues relating to feelings of loneliness and feeling unable to connect with and express their emptions. This can lead to poorer outcomes for people, and inhibits person-centred experiences.

Aim: To understand the benefits of poetry therapy for people in palliative and end of life care.

Methods: A narrative review of literature pertinent to the use of poetry with people in palliative and end of life care produced 13 relevant papers, which are presented within this paper.

Results: Within the literature, 4 key themes emerged: (1) The impact of poetry on the wellbeing of people in palliative and end of life care, (2) the impact of poetry on the wellbeing and confidence of health care professionals, (3) the value of poetry for family members preparing for and coping with bereavement, and (4) The value of poetry in facilitating person-centred practices in palliative care.

Conclusions: Poetry therapy can enable a person-centred culture by promoting feelings of well being for people in palliative care, and is also beneficial for health care professionals and family members.