MAiD for geriatric syndromes: Special considerations. Issue 3 (May 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lees, Caitlin; Andrew, Melissa K.
• Is Part Of: Healthcare management forum. Volume 36:Issue 3(2023)
• Page Start: 162
• Page End: 165
• Publication Date: 2023-05
• Subjects: Health services administration -- Periodicals; Health services administration -- Canada -- Periodicals; 362.1068
• DOI: 10.1177/08404704221141048
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0840-4704

Abstract

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) brings unique considerations in the context of geriatric syndromes such as frailty and cognitive or functional impairment. These conditions are associated with complex vulnerability across health and social domains and often do not have predicable trajectories or responses to healthcare interventions. In this article, we focus on four categories of gaps in care that are particularly relevant for MAiD in geriatric syndromes, namely, inadequacies in access to medical care, appropriate advance care planning, social supports, and funding for supportive care. We conclude by arguing that appropriately situating MAiD in the context of care for older adults requires careful consideration of these gaps in care to enable real, robust, and respectful healthcare choices for people living with geriatric syndromes and approaching end-of-life.