Exploring the bereavement support interventions, facilitators and barriers before and after the death of a resident in care home settings: a rapid mixed-methods review

Purpose of review Bereavement support in care homes is a critical aspect of end-of-life care that has gained increasing attention in recent years. The purpose of this rapid mixed-methods review is to synthesise evidence on pre- and post-bereavement support interventions as well as facilitators and barriers of bereavement for care home staff, residents, and bereaved family members in care homes. Recent findings Ten studies on pre- and post-bereavement support in care homes were identified. A conceptual model of bereavement support in care homes was developed and 11 measures to improve outcomes were identified: educating and training care home staff; facilitating acceptance of death; preparing for death and bereavement; building meaningful relationships; therapeutic communication; compassionate care; establishing a formal organisational culture; social support; advance care planning; and shared decision-making. The most important barriers affecting bereavement support are poor communication around death and being unprepared for death. Summary To facilitate higher quality person and family centred care, and to reduce the impact of negative bereavement outcomes for individuals in care homes, we recommend a formal organisational culture that prioritises preparedness for bereavement for care home staff, residents, and bereaved family members.