Bereavement support: evaluation of a palliative care memorial service

Abstract

A memorial service providing bereavement support in a palliative care unit is evaluated. Results indicate that respondents found it to be a positive experience, particularly in relation to its formality and content. One-fifth of respondents experi enced distress during the service, but this was evaluated as appropriate, being related to personal thoughts, feelings of loss and sadness, and remembrance.