Empathic Communication in Dignity Therapy for Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Bylund Carma, Koch Mary Kate, Crowe Alyssa, Bluck Susan
Primary Institution: University of Florida
Hypothesis
The study aimed to assess the use of empathic skills by providers during dignity therapy interviews with older palliative care patients.
Conclusion
Providers adjusted their use of empathic communication skills based on the physical functioning of their patients.
Supporting Evidence
- Providers used more validation and total empathic communication skills in sessions with patients who had lower palliative performance scores.
- Acknowledgement was the most frequently used empathic skill by providers.
Takeaway
This study looked at how doctors talk to older patients during therapy, finding that they change their approach based on how well the patients are feeling.
Methodology
The study analyzed 203 transcribed dignity therapy sessions with palliative care cancer outpatients aged 55 years or older.
Limitations
More research is needed to understand the impact of empathic communication skills on patient outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Palliative care cancer outpatients aged 55 years or older, with a mean age of 65.78 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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