Previous research has shown that achieving a “good death” is heavily influenced by the ability to find peace at the end of life. Despite the importance of dying with peace, few population-based data sources in Canada explore the relationship between end-of-life characteristics and peace with dying.
Using newly released data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA), a team of researchers at McMaster University found that approximately 1 in 5 older Canadians do not experience peace with dying.
“By understanding the factors that contribute to peace with dying, we can develop more effective strategies and policies to support individuals and families facing end-of-life challenges. This knowledge can help us create a more compassionate and supportive end-of-life care system for all Canadians,” said Komal Aryal, the first author of the study and a PhD candidate in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact at McMaster.
The researchers conducted a secondary analysis of decedent questionnaire data derived from interviews with family members of deceased CLSA participants to describe the prevalence and characteristics of peace with dying among Canadians.
According to the study, reports of peace with dying are associated with a combination of personal characteristics, aspects of social connection, predictability of the illness trajectory, and access to end-of-life planning. Individuals who are widowed, diagnosed with cancer, and had an end-of-life substitute decision maker, were more likely to experience peace with dying.
The research was published online in PLOS One in January 2025.
The results of the study support a greater focus on improving the end-of-life care through tailored interventions, such as advanced planning, to better meet an individual’s needs and facilitate dignified and comfortable end-of-life experiences for older adults.
