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01-06-2016 | Original Paper

Religion and Spirituality in Surrogate Decision Making for Hospitalized Older Adults

Authors: Kristin N. Geros-Willfond, Steven S. Ivy, Kianna Montz, Sara E. Bohan, Alexia M. Torke

Published in: Journal of Religion and Health | Issue 3/2016

Abstract

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 46 surrogate decision makers for hospitalized older adults to characterize the role of spirituality and religion in decision making. Three themes emerged: (1) religion as a guide to decision making, (2) control, and (3) faith, death and dying. For religious surrogates, religion played a central role in end of life decisions. There was variability regarding whether God or humans were perceived to be in control; however, beliefs about control led to varying perspectives on acceptance of comfort-focused treatment. We conclude that clinicians should attend to religious considerations due to their impact on decision making.

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Title: Religion and Spirituality in Surrogate Decision Making for Hospitalized Older Adults
Authors: Kristin N. Geros-Willfond
Steven S. Ivy
Kianna Montz
Sara E. Bohan
Alexia M. Torke
Publication date: 01-06-2016
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Religion and Health / Issue 3/2016
Print ISSN: 0022-4197
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6571
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-015-0111-9

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Religion and Spirituality in Surrogate Decision Making for Hospitalized Older Adults

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