Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in End-of-Life Care: A Meta-Analysis of Efficacy and Process of Change

Abstract

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based, process-oriented psychotherapy that provides palliative care through compassionate, person-centered care for terminal illness. This study evaluates the effects of ACT on quality of life (QoL) and emotional distress and examines the role of process variables (e.g., psychological flexibility). These findings support the clinical relevance of ACT as an effective approach for addressing psychological distress and improving QoL in end-of-life care. Key limitations include self-report bias, high heterogeneity, potential overlap between measures, publication bias for QoL, and limited sample sizes in some analyses. High-quality trials are warranted, particularly in non-oncological populations, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.