Dignity Therapy: Final Words for Final Days

by Harvey Max Chochinov

Maintaining dignity for patients approaching death is a core principle of palliative care. Translating that principle into methods of guiding care at the end of life, however, can be a complicated and daunting task. Dignity therapy, a psychological intervention developed by Dr. Harvey Max Chochinov and his internationally lauded research group, has been designed specifically to address many of the psychological, existential, and spiritual challenges that patients and their families face as they grapple with the reality of life drawing to a close. Tested with patients with advanced illnesses in Canada, the United States, Australia, China, Scotland, England, and Denmark, dignity therapy has been shown to not only benefit patients, but their families as well.

In the first book to lay out the blueprint for this unique and meaningful intervention, Chochinov addresses one of the most important dimensions of being human. Being alive means being vulnerable and mortal; he argues that dignity therapy offers a way to preserve meaning and hope for patients approaching death.

Dignity Final Words for Final Days is a beautiful introduction to this pioneering and innovative work. With history and foundations of dignity in care, and step by step guidance for readers interested in implementing the program, this volume illuminates how dignity therapy can change end-of-life experience for those about to die - and for those who will grieve their passing.

Genres: Psychology, Death, Social Work

224 pages, Hardcover

First published December 7, 2011

Reviews

[Ethan Ganes · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book, a great introduction to a variety of concepts. The dignity model and social dignity inventory were the most readily applicable. Executing Dignity Therapy seems costly, but no real criticisms for the book itself!

[Carla Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides the framework for Dignity Therapy and is an excellent companion to the course Dignity in Care.

[Daniel Brockhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent Books and Therapy, feels a little redundant at the end but necessary to see the difference between the conversation, transcription, and document presented to someones loved one. Seems like a great therapy for those doing comfort care, palliative care, palliative medicine, or hospice; however, at general hospitals I doubt staff would have the time to do such time-consuming work.

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice summary of Dignity Therapy complete with samples of transcribed interviews with patients facing end of life and the edited legacy documents. For anyone familiar with Dr Chochinov's previous journal articles and research this is a must read.