[The adaptation and applicability of dignity therapy in end-of-life care in Hungary].

Abstract

Dignity therapy is a brief, structured, narrative intervention aimed at alleviating the existential suffering of terminally ill patients and improving their quality of life. The method was developed by Harvey Max Chochinov and supports psychosocial dimensions such as role maintenance, generativity, self-identity, and hope. During its adaptation in Hungary, cultural, communicative, and legal characteristics were also taken into account. International research shows that dignity therapy has a positive effect on the sense of hope of dying people, reduces anxiety and depression, promotes inner peace and self-identity, and supports the deepening of the patient-caregiver relationship. The generativity document created during dignity therapy facilitates social connection and then grief processing. The dignity therapy training course for healthcare and social workers aims to teach them the principles of dignity-preserving care and to develop their empathic communication, self-reflection, and spiritual sensitivity. Participants in the pilot training course highlighted its practical applicability in addition to its attitude-shaping effect. With appropriate training, the dissemination of dignity therapy in Hungary can contribute to making end-of-life care more humane and strengthening a patient-centered professional culture. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(36): 1412–1419.