‘There for me’: A qualitative study of family communication and decision-making in end-of-life care for older people

Abstract

Background: Communication is an essential prerequisite for good end-of-life care. Yet, there is a need to better understand the unique features of communication regarding end-of-life care for older people. Aim: To gain an in-depth understanding of family communication and decision-making concerning older people’s end-of-life care. Design: Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with four older palliative care patients and seven bereaved family members in Melbourne, Australia. Data were analysed thematically using inductive coding. Findings: Participants preferred not to think about dying as older people trusted others (e.g. medical staff, God) to make decisions for them. This influenced e..