Update on End of Life Care

The majority of dying patients still receive aggressive care during the last 30 days of life (58% in the community and 64% in nursing homes), according to a recent study, Incidence of Aggressive End-of-Life Care Among Older Adults With Metastatic Cancer Living in Nursing Homes and Community Settings. (JAMA Open Network, Feb. 2023). A quarter underwent cancer treatment: surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy. Much of this care is likely unwanted and/or unnecessary and not beneficial. Most patients would probably have benefitted from hospice care and this study underscores the need for more education about this option.