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Almost 70% of Irish people say that the health pandemic has made them rethink they way they deal with death and bereavement.<\/p>\nAlmost 70% of Irish people say that the health pandemic has made them rethink they way they deal with death and bereavement.<\/p>\n
The survey also shows that 89% of people say that being together with extended family and friends is a key part of the grieving process.<\/p>\n
The Irish Hospice Foundation published the survey of Irish people\u2019s attitudes around death and bereavement which shows a majority of people believe the current Covid-19 pandemic has made the public rethink how we deal with dying, death and bereavement.<\/p>\n
The survey, conducted by Behavior & Attitudes (B&A), shows that about 10% think we talk too much about death, while 34% think we do not talk about it enough.<\/p>\n
Over half of people say they struggle to know what to say to someone who is bereaved or to know how to support them, and this number jumps to 77% among those under 34 years of age.<\/p>\n
Some 29% believe there are not enough supports available in Ireland for those who have been bereaved \u2013 with 27% believing there are enough.<\/p>\n
Chief executive of the Irish Hospice Foundation, Sharon Foley said: \u201cWe know from our work over 30 years that Irish people want a society where death and bereavement is openly talked about and not hidden away, where people can die with dignity and that supports and services are in place for end of life and for loved ones who are bereaved.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis opinion poll shows us that more than two-thirds believe the Covid-19 pandemic is making us rethink how we deal with dying and bereavement.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis supports our belief from decades of experience and our learning from the Covid-19 pandemic that death, dying and bereavement is truly everyone\u2019s business and requires a comprehensive national response.\u201d<\/p>\n
The research also showed a significant impact from Covid-19 with measures introduced restricting the numbers at funerals with the vast majority of people saying that being with extended family and friends is key to grieving.<\/p>\n
Ms Foley said that she has written to the National Public Health Emergency Team calling on them to increase the number of people allowed to attend funerals while maintaining social distancing.<\/p>\n
The Irish Hospice Foundation believes the results from the survey highlights the need for further resources and supports for people to deal with death and bereavement.<\/p>\n