Sources of Spiritual Care in Hospice That Support the Well-being of African-American Hospice Patients and Their Caregivers in the USA
ResearchPosted on rand.org Feb 2, 2026Published in: Journal of Religion and Health (2026). DOI: 10.1007/s10943-025-02548-4
Spiritual care offers significant benefits to hospice patients and caregivers. However, disparities exist in the perceived quality of spiritual care among African-American caregivers. We interviewed bereaved caregivers of African-American decedents, their chaplains and clergy, and conducted a medical record review to explore the sources of spiritual care that support well-being for African-American patients and caregivers in hospice. We found that both chaplains and clergy supported social and spiritual well-being, whereas other hospice team members were seen as responsible for the hospice environment and physical well-being. Church congregations and families were most involved in providing social and emotional support.
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