The development of an individual differences end-of-life treatment preferences scale

Death Stud. 2022;46(4):902-910. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2020.1788666. Epub 2020 Jul 9.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to create an individual differences measure of end-of-life treatment preferences (EOLTPs). Young adults (n = 427) and older adults (n = 333) completed a survey. Results found that hope of recovery was an important factor in whether individuals preferred a given medical intervention. A single factor explained the majority of the variance in EOLTPs, and EOLTPs were distinct from more general attitudes about medical care. Older adults preferred less end-of-life medical intervention compared to younger adults. Overall, the results of the study support the use of an individual differences approach to measuring EOLTPs.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Attitude
  • Death
  • Humans
  • Individuality*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Terminal Care* / methods
  • Young Adult