Gender differences in older adults' preferences for life-sustaining medical treatments and end-of-life values

Death Stud. 2001 Mar;25(2):127-49. doi: 10.1080/07481180126202.

Abstract

In the present study, we examined gender differences in preferences for life sustaining treatments in response to various health state scenarios and the endorsement of end-of-life values in 99 older adults. Men preferred life-sustaining treatments more than women overall, for specific treatments (i.e., CPR, surgery, and artificial feeding), and in response to specific health scenarios (i.e., current health, Alzheimer's disease, coma with a slight chance of recovery). In terms of values, women indicated a greater desire for a dignified death than men.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Life Support Care* / psychology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Sex Factors
  • Social Values*