Embracing Life

Abstract

Hospice and palliative care is based on a biopsychosocial–spiritual model, yet there are very few studies or evaluations of programing designed to improve emotional well-being in terminally ill clients. This article reports on a program evaluation describing the Gift of a Day program offered by Crossroads Hospice. The Gift of a Day program seeks to celebrate life with each individual client by providing a customized client-centered event that encompasses activities that are enjoyable and important to them. Results suggest that participating in activities that are pleasurable and personally meaningful may improve clients’ emotional well-being at the end of life.