Applying Dignity Therapy to a person with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
a case study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59679/LAPC20230051Keywords:
Palliative Care, Dignity, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Psychotherapy, Emotional DistressAbstract
Introduction: To understand the effects of Dignity Therapy on the physical, existential, and psychosocial symptoms of a
person with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Method: This is a single case study exploratory, and descriptive employing a mixed method approach. In it, Dignity Therapy
was applied to an individual diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and its effectiveness was assessed using the following scales: the Patient Dignity Inventory, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Spiritual Well-being Scale, and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale.
Results: The application of Dignity Therapy was assertive for the intended objectives, considering the reported improvement in the participant’s existential well-being, made possible by the evocation of significant memories that culminated in the creation of a legacy document for future generations. These improvements were also corroborated by lower scores on the assessment scales.
Conclusion: The results of this case point to the positive effects of Dignity Therapy on physical, existential, and psychosocial symptoms, suggesting the feasibility of this intervention as an integral part of palliative care. Such an approach can help improve quality of life and give new meaning to the suffering inherent in the disease.
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