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Beliefs about the treatment of illness
Buddhist traditions emphasise personal responsibility for all of one's actions and as a result a Buddhist will wish to do all that is necessary to maintain health through positive means. They also emphasise the spiritual aspect and many may use prayer and psychosomatic techniques such as meditation as preferred options for pain relief.
Religious contacts and religious practices
Essential Practice Point 1
- There are followers of all Buddhist traditions in Ireland (see the Profile of Buddhism in Ireland heading above for further information). Many Buddhists receive spiritual support from spiritual advisers including teachers, monks, nuns and in some cases a community member. The setting will need to clarify the tradition of Buddhism followed and the name of a spiritual contact.
- In emergency situations where the person has not been able to identify a spiritual adviser contact the local Buddhist centre or one of the centres named under Developing a local contact. Even if the centre is not from the person's tradition they are likely to be willing to assist.
(Return to Summary of Essential Practice Points)
- Buddhists may wish to have a small altar/ shrine beside their bed or in their room. The altar/shrine may contain religious symbols such as a small statue of the Buddha, religious images and objects, candles (can be unlit) and incense (can be unlit).
- Some Buddhists may use prayer mandalas (sacred symbols drawn on material) at the bedside.
Food and the content of medicine
Essential Practice Point 2
- Many Buddhists are vegetarian or vegan. Food needs should be discussed with the person and should meet recognised vegetarian or vegan standards.
- If medicines contain animal products the person should be informed so that they can make an informed choice.
(Return to Summary of Essential Practice Points)
Family dynamics and decision making
Essential Practice Point 3
Some Western Buddhists living in Ireland were raised in Christian families. The family may not be familiar with Buddhist death-related customs, some of which are summarised in Essential Practice points 4 and 5 below. As much as possible this needs to be taken care of before the moment of death as it is vital to maintain a peaceful environment. If deemed necessary the healthcare setting could provide assistance to a family, through social work or family intervention, to resolve any issues.
Here, as in other cases, the wishes of the person are paramount.
(Return to Summary of Essential Practice Points)
Blood Transfusion and Organ Transplantation
The approach to blood transfusions and organ transplantation varies depending on the tradition of Buddhism that is being followed. Some will be happy to accept the procedures, seeing them as an act of kindness. Others may be concerned about the spiritual consequences of accepting blood and organs from an unknown source and may first wish to have spiritual guidance. Where the person has not left instructions, it is best to consult a family member or the spiritual contact in these situations.
