The meaning of art in palliative care from the end users' perspective.

ABSTRACT Background Research concerning art initiatives within palliative care mainly addresses the artist’s perspective. Our study brings in the end users’ voices. Method We conducted ethnographic research in the framework of a program that invited professional artists to work at a Belgian palliative and supportive day care center. We examined how the so-called guests (i.e. end users) valued and experienced the artists’ presence and activities. Results Guests mentioned a positive influence on their personal and social well-being. They also indicated a cultural and artistic value. Art activities offered them something new and unexpected and took them to a different place. Guests felt challenged by activities when their well-being was negatively provoked, when they experienced activities as incomprehensible or in case of logistic hassle. Conclusions Art activities in palliative care settings must be adapted to the interests and abilities of the end users and supported by an educational and logistic framework.