Walking in Two Worlds: Hmong End of Life Beliefs & Rituals

For over 40 years, the Hmong have sought refuge in the United States; however, many Hmong elders continue to honor healthcare and end-of-life beliefs and rituals that they practiced in their home country. With little knowledge by the general public and healthcare systems about these beliefs and rituals, healthcare professionals may struggle to provide the Hmong community with culturally-sensitive care. This study sought to address this gap by conducting in-depth face-to-face interviews with 12 Animist and 8Christian Hmong elders born in Southeast Asia, who now reside in the United States. Results provided insights regarding the heterogeneity among these Hmong elders concerning their end-of-life beliefs and rituals. Both Animist and Christian respondents believed family should provide care at end of life. Animist Hmong elders reported the importance of Shamanistic rituals such as soul calling or spiritual offering while Christian Hmong elders believed in the power of prayers. Healthcare providers need to assess Hmong elders' preferences for care at end of life, be open to the inclusion of traditional healers in their care and/or decision-making, and understand preferences of family and community members' involvement in care at the end of life.