Disparities and Racism Experienced Among Older African Americans Nearing End of Life

The purpose of this review is to examine racism in healthcare as it relates to older African American adults. We focus on health disparities in old age and medical mismanagement throughout their lifespan.

In the United States there have been extensive medical advances over the past several decades. Individuals are living longer, and illnesses that were deemed terminal in the past are now considered chronic illnesses. While most individuals living with chronic illness have experienced better quality of life, this is not the case for many African American older adults.

Older African American adults are less likely to have their chronic illness sufficiently managed and are more likely to die from chronic illnesses that are well controlled in Whites. African American older adults also continue to suffer from poorer healthcare outcomes throughout the lifespan to end-of-life.