The experiences on how living funerals impact the psychological well-being and sense of closure for terminally ill patients -Case report.

Abstract

Terminally ill individuals often grapple with various psychological challenges as they face their mortality. While traditional funerals provide solace to the bereaved, living funerals have emerged as a distinct opportunity for both the patient and their loved ones to socially participate in the farewell. This case report highlights the impact on the psychological well-being and sense of closure for Ms. T, a Singaporean patient with terminal ovarian cancer, who hosted her own living funeral. Ms. T was receiving home hospice care. Her symptoms (including pain, discomfort, insomnia, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath) have limited her from social connection; something that she values and emphasized prior to illness. After discussing with Ms. T about her values and end-of-life care preferences, a living funeral was arranged, where she invited friends and family to attend at her home to connect with her and to create memories. At the session, Ms. T became more energetic and was described as 'the life of the party'. The social experience of holding a Living Funeral provided motivation and sustainability to her overall well-being. Moreover, there was an increase in her social circle contacting her to keep in touch. The living funeral is aligned with concepts related to life review. The patient, as host of the living funeral, was able to witness the impact of their life on others, reinforcing her ego integrity and psychological resilience at her final stage of life. The patient expressed a sense of 'closure and completeness', having 'reconnected with friends and family' by 'clarifying their relationships' and 'expressing love for each other'. This intervention also highlighted the impact of addressing social connections and relationships between patients and their loved ones. Further examination could highlight the benefits, challenges, and underlying constructs of the Living Funeral.