Your religious and spiritual needs at the end of life

Not everyone is religious or has a spiritual practice. But some people discover this side of themselves when they are close to death.

Finding out they are dying can strengthen some people’s beliefs. Some people reconsider their religious and spiritual beliefs. They may change what they believe or discover new beliefs.

The difference between religion and spirituality

Religion is a specific set of beliefs and actions that are done in a certain way (rituals). People practise it in a community or group. For example, Roman Catholicism.

Spirituality is more of an individual way of being. It has to do with having a sense of peace and purpose. It can also be about beliefs around the meaning of life and connection with others.

Talking about your religious or spiritual needs

You might want a religious or spiritual leader to visit you during your last few weeks of life. Many people find it helpful to talk to their religious or spiritual adviser in these weeks. They will be able to visit you if you’re in hospital or in a hospice.

Other people prefer to share their beliefs and experiences with a:

• partner
• close friend
• nurse

It is important that you are able to explore and express your religious or spiritual needs in the last few weeks of your life if you want to. 

Tell the people caring for you if you have specific needs relating to your spiritual or religious beliefs. For example, you might have specific requests about how you would like your body to be handled before and after you die.

Medical staff will write this in your notes if you’re in a hospital or hospice. This way everyone involved in your care is aware of your religious or spiritual needs.

The most important thing is that you feel your needs are being taken care of.