The Inner Life at the End of Life

This study utilized Husserl's phenomenological perspective and Colaizzi's analysis technique to investigate the lived experience of the inner life of 10 hospice patients as they faced their dying experience. Interview results revealed three metathemes: (1) life review leading to life perspectives; (2) factors related to death attitudes; and (3) lifestyle changes, including subthemes: "living while dying" and "the search: to find an acceptable and satisfying completion to this life." The significance of this study was the discovery of an effective process for guidance and support of dying patients that the author calls the "inner life at the end of life." During this process, participants engaged in life review and reevaluation based on their life perspectives and attitude toward death. Within that framework, participants experienced a range of shared dimensions, punctuated by specifically unique experiences as they engaged in a search for meaning and significance. End-of-life changes compelled participants to seek new resources and strategies for maintenance of control and stability. When challenges emerged, the participants implemented "the search: to find an acceptable and satisfying completion to this life," engaging family members, friends, and the hospice team in an effort to relieve discomfort and regain a degree of control.