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Australia is a multicultural society and as such it is important we understand and respect the many cultures we come into contact with.

This is especially important when volunteering in palliative care, where we are welcomed into peoples’ homes.

For people of faith, the time approaching end of life is one where people are more likely to turn to their faith for comfort. Having a basic understanding of how different faiths approach end of life can help a volunteer avoid being insensitive and be better prepared for their role.

Meaningful Aging Australia has published a guide, Multifaith Practices: Guidelines for Community and Residential Aged Care.

The guide covers six religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, and Sikhism. Each chapter provides an introductory overview for each religion, including:

– Beliefs and values

– Sacred texts

– Holy days, holidays, and ritual observances

– Late life celebrations

– Caring practices during illness

– End of life practices

– Readings and prayers

While this publication costs $20, Volunteer Managers might consider having a copy available as a resourse for training their volunteers. You can purchase copies from the Meaningful Aging Australia website here.