Qualities of the dying experience of persons who access medical assistance in dying: A scoping review

Death Stud. 2023;47(9):1033-1043. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2022.2160033. Epub 2022 Dec 29.

Abstract

Defining a "good death" is complex and grounded in diverse cultural, social, and personal factors. Although there is a significant body of literature exploring the broad concepts of death and dying, there is a dearth in literature that has explored what constitutes a good death for persons undergoing assisted dying such as Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD). In this scoping review of 19 articles, we explore dying experiences and what a good death entails for people accessing MAiD. Understanding personal values and ideas about positive dying experiences can guide patients, care partners, and clinicians in their preparation toward, and facilitation of, a good death experience particularly among persons who access MAiD.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Canada
  • Humans
  • Suicide, Assisted*