"The Intangible Became Tangible": Qualitative Insights Into How End-Of-Life Experiences Shape Bereavement

Research suggests that end-of-life experiences (ELEs) - unusual or unexplained phenomena around the time of death - can positively influence the dying process. Despite this, few studies have examined whether and how ELEs affect the experience of grief for bereaved loved ones. Using a qualitative approach, the study explored how ELEs shaped grief for eight bereaved individuals based in Aotearoa New Zealand. Interpretive phenomenological analysis was used to analyse the content of semi-structured interviews. Findings suggest that ELEs can shape grief in complex ways - often involving conflicting emotions that can alter a bereaved loved one's perceptions of mortality and moderate the intensity of grief. The study also highlights barriers to sharing these experiences, with fear of judgement playing a key role. Future research may wish to further explore the relationship between ELEs and grief, particularly with underrepresented groups.