End of life care preferences

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Medical Ethics
• Health Psychology

Background:

• The ability to express end-of-life care preferences is linked to a 'good death'.
• Recent literature highlights the importance of respecting patient autonomy in end-of-life decision-making.
• Studies often focus on patients with advanced terminal illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the scientific literature on how end-of-life care preferences are addressed.
• To identify current research trends and methodologies in studying end-of-life preferences.
• To explore the implications for patient care and healthcare provider support.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent scientific literature on end-of-life care preferences.
• Analysis of studies focusing on patient wishes in terminal illness scenarios.
• Examination of research addressing life-shortening medical decisions.

Main Results:

• A 'good death' often involves the ability to make decisions about one's own dying process.
• End-of-life preferences are dynamic and influenced by quality of life components (functional, psychosocial, spiritual).
• Half of the reviewed studies specifically addressed life-shortening medical decisions.

Conclusions:

• Longitudinal study designs are recommended for accurately capturing fluctuating end-of-life preferences.
• Healthcare providers and patients need support in timing preference discussions and managing psychological defenses.
• Tools and guidelines are being developed to assist in end-of-life care planning and conflict management.