A narrative analysis of spiritual distress in geriatric physical rehabilitation

摘要

Drawing upon narrative data generated in a semi-structured interview with an 82-year-old female patient in geriatric physical rehabilitation, this clinical case study provides a detailed example of recognizing, assessing, and addressing spiritual distress as a symptom of physical pain. Data analysis focused on narrative content as well as on the interactive and performative aspects of narrating spiritual health issues in a close reading of two attachment narratives. Results support the narrative turn in healthcare, including the therapeutic benefits of empathic listening as narrative care in geriatric rehabilitation and in healthcare in general.