At life’s crossroads: a systematic review of end-of-life care preferences in older adults

Understanding end-of-life care (EOLC) preferences amongst older adults is crucial for enhancing the quality of care and ensuring that individuals receive treatment that aligns with their values and desires. This systematic review aims to explore the preferences of older adults regarding EOLC, focusing on the factors influencing these preferences and the implications for healthcare practice. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, identifying studies that reported on the preferences of older adults for EOLC settings, such as hospice, home care and palliative care. The review included a range of quantitative and qualitative studies, providing a multifaceted perspective on the subject. The findings reveal that various factors, including cultural beliefs, socio-economic status and personal experiences with illness and death, shape older adults’ preferences. The review emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers engaging in open discussions with older patients about their end-of-life care preferences, thereby ensuring that care plans are tailored to meet individual needs and preferences. The insights gained from this review can inform policy and practice, ultimately improving the quality of EOLC for the elderly population.

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