Big questions at the end of life: How philosophy supports hospice care

Patrick Schuchter and his research team investigated philosophical practice in palliative care. Some of their findings will be presented at a conference at the University of Graz from 10 to 12 October.

Pain relief, palliative care, psychotherapy: dying people and their relatives receive comprehensive support and care. What they lack are answers to some of life's existential questions. Philosophical dialogues can be a great support in the personal confrontation with loss, death and grief. This is what Patrick Schuchter, who holds a degree in healthcare and nursing and a doctorate in philosophy, discovered in his research project. Some of the results will be presented at a conference from 10 to 12 October at the University of Graz.

Have I led a good life? What is really important? What comes after death? "Many people ask themselves questions like these on their deathbed," reports Schuchter from his experience. "Reflecting on this without expecting an answer opens up new perspectives, brings more clarity and closeness," the philosopher has observed as part of the project. Relatives, carers, nursing staff and doctors would also benefit from philosophical practice in everyday life. At the conference "Encounters in Ultimate Situations. Philosophical Practice and Palliative Care", participants will find out what formats and possibilities there are for this, how they can be integrated in hospitals, hospices or caring communities and what experiences professionals have already had with them.

The event is aimed at full-time and voluntary employees in the health and social care system, caring relatives, philosophical practitioners and researchers. Registration is possible until 15 September 2025.

Further information about the conference

More information on the research project " Philosophical Practice in Palliative Care and Hospice Work", which is funded by the Austrian Science Fund FWF

Dagmar Eklaude

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