Effects of dignity therapy on terminally ill patients: a systematic review

Objective: Analyzing the evidence of the effects of dignity therapy on terminally ill patients. Method: A Systematic review of the literature conducted using the search strategy in six databases. Inclusion criteria were primary studies, excluding literature reviews (systematic or not) and conceptual articles. Results: Ten articles were analyzed regarding method, results and evidence level. Dignity therapy improved the sense of meaning and purpose, will to live, utility, quality of life, dignity and family appreciation in studies with a higher level of evidence. The effects are not well established in relation to depression, anxiety, spirituality and physical symptoms. Conclusion: Studies with a moderate to high level of evidence have shown increased sense of dignity, will to live and sense of purpose. Further studies should be developed to increase knowledge about dignity therapy.