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Abstract

Purpose and design of study: This is an integrative systematic review of the role of forgiveness to cope with death anxiety that is common to aging and advanced illness. The purpose is to facilitate evidence-based information for holistic nurses to favor the promotion of forgiveness in their patients. Method: An integrative systematic review was undertaken to synthesize findings from original peer-reviewed research articles using qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods conducted in adults (≥18 years old) receiving treatment for advanced illness and/or of older age (≥ 65 years old) from five electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and Scopus). Findings: Forty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. A priori framework-based synthesis identified the commonalities in the attributes underlying forgiveness, benefits of forgiveness on physical and mental health, and the forgiveness interventions relevant to aging and advanced illness but a lack of standardized assessments. Conclusions: This systematic review provides guidance for holistic nurses to promote forgiveness as an essential part of holistic healthcare in aging and advanced illness.

Keywords

forgiveness advanced illness aging death anxiety holistic nursing

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The Role of Forgiveness for Aging and Advanced Illness: An Integrative Systematic Review

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