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For most seniors, the ability to stay in their own home for as long as possible is important. To achieve this, caregivers and community services are often sought out for help. In this rapid review by Daudt (2023) and colleagues, the psychosocial aspects surrounding aging and dying among seniors were explored. Their goal was to identity gaps in programs and services that support dying at home.
To complete the research, 42 peer-reviewed articles were explored. The challenges identified in aging and dying at home were divided into three different categories. The first category included the lack of attention the patients received in the current palliative programs and services. According to these articles, seniors are reporting that their needs are not fully being met, especially when considering a holistic approach to well-being. Based off these results, questions arise on the effectiveness of the systems currently in place used to promote a comprehensive and person-centered approach to aging and end-of-life care.
The second common theme highlighted was a lack of information about the journey, leaving patients and their families unprepared for the upcoming treatments. There are various challenges and obstacles associated with aging and end-of-life treatments which seniors may not have received enough guidance or resources to navigate. This can cause the experience to be more stressful and can lead to unmet needs or a lack of coping mechanisms for both the patient and their caregivers. Due to this, the research encourages offering some guidance and education for an overall better patient experience during these difficult times.
Thirdly, patient relationships are not always easy to achieve. The research demonstrates difficulties in establishing collaborative and trusting relationships between the seniors and caregivers. These relationships are crucial in end-of-life care for ensuring that seniors receive the support necessary and that they feel comfortable sharing their needs. Without healthy relationships, a risk of unmet psychosocial needs is present which can harm a patient’s holistic health.
As a solution, the study suggests utilising community initiatives and an integrated palliative approach to care. Many community organisations can help address the unmet needs of the seniors during these times such as social support, companionship, and resources for a better comprehension of the process. An integrated palliative approach could be beneficial to blend the end-of-life care into the patient’s life including a framework of support to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of care.
The review demonstrates the importance of offering support for seniors to age where they are comfortable and to have their treatments align with their preferences. By recognizing challenges that arise, it can be easier to address them and for policymakers, healthcare providers and community organizations to collaborate to improve the experience and concentrate on a person-centered approach. With a growing population of seniors, it is becoming essential to implement some proactive measures that empower patients and their caregivers to make the end-of-life experience as positive as possible.
Source: Daudt, H. M., & Spargo, E. L. (2023). Challenges and Facilitators for Psychosocial Support when Aging and Dying in Place: A Rapid Review of the Literature. Canadian Journal on Aging/La Revue canadienne du vieillissement, 1-19.
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