Wednesday 16 October 2019

Challenges and support needs of parents and children when a parent is at end of life: A systematic review

Palliative Medicine, 2019 33(8) p.1017-1044
Jeffrey R Hanna, Eilís McCaughan, Cherith J Semple

This review synthesised evidence on the experiences of parents and children when a parent is at the end of life to discern their challenges, support needs and the factors that facilitated good practice. Lack of understanding in relation to the parent's prognosis, denial and feeling ill-equipped were suggested as barriers for parents to share the news with their children. Engagement with social networks, including extended family relatives and peers, and maintaining routines such as attending school were suggested supportive by parents and children.