Learn how culture affects the way people view, talk about, and plan for death and dying.
As we work to promote death awareness and death positivity in society it is important to remember cultural differences that may influence how others view the end of life. We need to have room in our approach for diverse belief systems and traditions in order to best meet the needs of all members of the communities we serve.
This episode includes:
- The difference between individualistic and collectivistic perspectives on life
- Cultural reasons why discussing illness and death is frowned upon
- Different styles of end-of-life decision-making
- Reasons why minority groups have low rates of completion of advance directives
- Distrust of healthcare system
- Past or current healthcare disparities
- Cultural perspectives on death and suffering (e.g. aggressive treatment equates with love)
- Spiritual perspectives (e.g. only God determines the end of life)
- Family dynamics
- Culturally sensitive approach
- Be open-minded
- Be aware of potential cultural/religious/societal differences
- Consider alternative discussions with family members rather than patient
- Ask what a “good end of life” looks like to them
- Ask what hope means to them
- Sources of hope
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Article: Stop Trying to Soften Bad News for Patients
- Article: Cultural Diversity at the End of Life: Issues and Guidelines for Family Physicians
- Beautiful Dying Expo – November 2, 2019, San Diego CA
- Before I Die Arizona – October 29 – November 3, Scottsdale AZ
- Spiritual Journeys in Chronic Illness Course
- Join the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it)
If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on Patreon.com/eolu, your contributions mean everything to me!