Spiritual Services

What is “Spiritual Care?”
It is not uncommon that once a patient’s physical pain is palliated, spiritual concerns come to the forefront. For those facing the end of life, normal spiritual concerns are anticipatory grief, finding meaning in one’s life, reconciling past hurts and painful relationships, saying good-bye to loved ones, and redefining one’s hopes for the future. Many people find that the time spent pondering life’s great mysteries can lead to renewed joy, and a peaceful death. For some, this exploration can take place within one’s own faith group and with the help of the leaders from that group. Others may reach out to a close friend or family member. The Hospice Spiritual Caregiver is also available to help, to those who request it.

How can Spiritual Care enhance hospice care?
The final stage of life is often a time of great spiritual growth. Spiritual care is offered to those who request it, to aid the patient and family. Many find it a very important component of care. Spiritual care is offered through:

Home visits...
Contact can be provided by the patient’s personal clergy, community volunteer clergy, rabbis, and spiritual care volunteers. The Spiritual Care Coordinator is also available for home visits, at the request of the patient and family.

Exploring life events and life review...
A discussion, exploring the events and reviewing the life of a patient, can have great meaning at this time.

A friendly visitor...
A friendly visitor can help by listening to the patient or caregiver talk about the illness. This is known as the “Ministry of Presence.” Often, life events such as a serious illness can create many doubts and questions concerning issues of faith and spirituality. Having someone listen can be a great source of comfort and support.

Prayer and meditation...
Prayer can be a source of hope and comfort. Meditation can enhance a patient’s ability to control pain.

Guided imagery...
The ability to visualize yourself at the beach, or other relaxing place, or listening to pleasant sounds such as a soothing rainfall can be relaxing and also help to relieve pain. Resources are available to assist patients in this exercise, known as guided imagery.

Funeral liturgy...
The Spiritual Care Coordinator can assist with memorial planning, including choosing readings and songs, and providing a member of the clergy to preside at a memorial service. A funeral liturgy can also be provided.

Who provides Spiritual Care?
The Spiritual Care Coordinator directs the spiritual care program for Hospice & Palliative Care Partners of Ohio and is available to provide most of the services listed. However, if you have a particular religious or spiritual preference, the Spiritual Care Coordinator will refer you to another resource or community service for support. In addition, there are many volunteer clergy who are willing to provide spiritual care and support.

How do I arrange for Spiritual Care?
All hospice patients are given a spiritual assessment as part of the initial visit with a HPCPO social worker. The patient or family may request spiritual care at that time, or at any time while the patient is admitted to the HPCPO program.