RESEARCH

Current Status of Complementary Therapies Provided by Hospice Palliative Care in South Korea

This study examines complementary therapies in South Korean hospice care, identifying horticultural, music, art, and aromatherapy as common practices while highlighting the need for evidence-based guidelines and improved employment conditions for therapists.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Hospitals/Clinics

Allied Profession Intersections: Occupational Therapy, Social Work, Nursing

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Forest/Natural Area Immersion, Mindfulness/Visualizations

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Observational Research, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

This study investigates the use of complementary therapies in hospice palliative care facilities in South Korea. An email survey conducted from September 2 to September 23, 2020, gathered responses from 109 therapists and 59 managers across 55 hospice facilities. The findings revealed that hospices provided an average of 3.67 types of therapies, with horticultural therapy (81.4%), music therapy (79.7%), art therapy (76.3%), and aromatherapy (57.6%) being the most common. Sessions typically lasted 60 minutes and occurred weekly, with nearly all therapists (96.3%) holding qualifications, though certification standards varied significantly.

The study highlights the perceived positive impact of these therapies, with therapists and managers rating their effectiveness highly (average scores of 8.90 and 8.38 out of 10, respectively). However, challenges such as inconsistent certification processes, low therapist pay, and lack of full-time employment were noted. The authors recommend developing evidence-based guidelines tailored to each therapy type to enhance their effectiveness and ensure sessions align with theoretical principles. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for policy support to improve employment conditions for therapists and to integrate complementary therapies as essential components of hospice care.

Link

Kwon, S., Bak, J., & Kwon, SH. (2021, June). Current status of complementary therapies provided by hospice palliative care in South Korea [including HT]. J Hosp Palliat Care., 24(2), 85-96.

Other Recommended Research

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.