A Time for Listening and Caring: Spirituality and the Care of the Chronically Ill and Dying

This book is an informative and practical guide for anyone involved in the care of the seriously and chronically ill or dying. The relationship between spirituality and medicine has recently received much attention in both the scientific and lay press, but research and anecdotal evidence suggests that spirituality is central to the care of the chronically ill and dying. It is therefore critical that healthcare professionals who come into contact with seriously ill patients know how to meet their spiritual needs.This book presents current thinking about how spiritual care can be integrated into traditional care. Part one discusses aspects of spirituality such as presence, ethics and relationships. Part Two delves into a range of specific religious and theological traditions. Part three offers practical applications and tools, including storytelling, psychotherapy, dance, music and art. Part four focuses on patient stories and reflections. The book concludes with appendices that provide sample guidelines for Protestant, Catholic, Jewish and Muslim patients.