End of life care lacking for elderly

Wednesday, 25 May 2005 12:00 AM

Elderly people are being prevented from dying with dignity because of inherent ageism in the National Health Service, according to a new report from Help the Aged.

Researchers at the University of Sheffield found an "enormous" difference in the level and quality of care and support available to older dying patients compared to younger people.

Only 8.5 per cent of older patients spend their last days in a hospice, compared to 20 per cent in younger patients, while they are also less likely to die at home, although half of patients questioned would prefer this option.

The study highlights how the more complex nature of older people's health conditions and worse financial condition in comparison to young people means they require at least the same level of care and support.

"Good quality end of life care must be available for all who need it, regardless of their age or medical status. The concept of rationing care at the end of life on the basis of age is appalling," said Paul Cann, director of policy and research at Help the Aged.

He added: "Choices must be available for older people known to be dying so they can have the kind of death they would prefer. Current taboos around death and dying means that older people are too often not consulted on their preferences."

He also drew attention to the "revolving door" problem experienced by elderly people, whereby they are continuously moved into different environments while their health deteriorates.

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