Qualitative insights into the palliative care experience of a hospice-based sensory room

Abstract

Background: The use of multi-sensory rooms as a form of engagement with art in Palliative Care is largely unexplored.

Method: This practice-based report discusses a qualitative study exploring the experiences of hospice-based inpatients receiving end-of-life care and their carers who immersed themselves into a multi-sensory room.

Results: Findings demonstrate that the room provided a safe space for reflection and reconnection that counteracted challenging times during their end of life. It fostered healing and wellbeing by alleviated suffering through respite and sharing of treasured memories with loved ones. Key considerations for future iterations are also discussed.

Keywords: Palliative care; arts in health; hospice care; qualitative research; sensory rooms.