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End-of-Life Dreams and Visions and Self-Transcendence: A Comparison Study
Kathryn Levy1,2, Gina Schuster1, Sheila Conboy1
1Research Department, Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo, Cheektowaga, New York, USA.
Journal of Palliative Medicine
|July 30, 2025
Summary
End-of-life dreams and visions (ELDVs) did not significantly impact self-transcendence levels in hospice patients. Further research is needed to explore ELDVs
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Thanatology
Background:
- End-of-life dreams and visions (ELDVs) are common experiences for dying individuals.
- Research indicates ELDVs can positively influence psychological processes.
- Further investigation is needed to understand the full impact of ELDVs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare self-transcendence levels between hospice patients with and without ELDV experiences.
- To explore the relationship between ELDVs and perceived self-transcendence in a palliative care setting.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional comparative study design.
- Seventy-two hospice patients (35 with ELDV experiences, 37 without) were recruited.
- Self-transcendence was measured using the Self-Transcendence Scale.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in self-transcendence were found between patients with and without ELDVs (p = 0.310).
- Patients experiencing ELDVs did not report higher levels of self-transcendence.
- No significant differences were observed on individual survey items related to self-transcendence.
Conclusions:
- The presence of ELDVs does not appear to influence self-transcendence in hospice patients.
- Potential explanations include self-transcendence as a developmental stage or its intrinsic link to end-of-life care.
- Future research should examine ELDVs' impact on spiritual wellness in the dying.
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