Will they let me die? Perspectives of older Swiss adults on end-of-life issues.

This article contributes to scientific discussion with regard to the interplay of individual and social factors on end-of-life decisions. Semi-directed interviews (N = 18) with people over 65 years highlighted two different but articulated fears in relation to end-of-life care: on one hand, older adults fear not being allowed to die and being subjected to therapeutic obstinacy; on the other, they fear not being cared for properly, due to their age and a lack of financial resources in the health and social care system. Recommendations are given to assist professionals in discussing these fears with the people concerned and their families.