Dignity therapy led by a chaplain for palliative care patients in Brazil: an empirical study

Dignity Therapy (DT) has emerged as an effective tool for dealing with psychosocial and existential anguish and rescuing the dignity of palliative care patients. Thus, this study aimed to analyse the application effects of Dignity Therapy, led by a chaplain, with these patients. This is a qualitative study, categorised as a narrative intervention. Ten patients took part in the study. All reported positive effects of DT include feeling recognised, self-continuity, strengthening of hope and constructing meaning and purpose, connection with inner space, and manifesting spiritual virtues. The results suggest that DT fulfils its purpose, proving to be a valuable tool for chaplains to use in palliative care to promote patients' dignity at the end of life. Professional chaplains trained in DT can significantly contribute to quality spiritual care for palliative care patients.