Understanding death wishes in later life: a narrative review - Takeaways - MDSpire

Understanding death wishes in later life: a narrative review

  • By

  • Richard C. Oude Voshaar

  • Radboud M. Marijnissen

  • June 19, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Death wishes among older adults are complex and not solely linked to mental or terminal illness.

  • 2

    These wishes often reflect existential responses to cumulative losses in autonomy, identity, and social connections.

  • 3

    A multilevel framework identifies psychological, social, cultural, and legal factors influencing death wishes.

  • 4

    Death wishes can range from passive thoughts to explicit requests for medical assistance in dying.

  • 5

    Effective clinical responses require narrative competence and awareness of the contextual influences on these wishes.

Original Source(s)

Understanding death wishes in later life: a narrative review

  • by Richard C. Oude Voshaar, Radboud M. Marijnissen

  • June 19, 2026

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