Preparation for Death and Preparation for Care in Older Community-Dwelling Adults

Abstract

Preparation for one's death (e.g., having signed a will, having made preparations for one's funeral) and preparation for future care needs (e.g., having selected a source of support) were investigated in 593 United States and 582 German independently living seniors. The older adults reported higher levels of preparation for death than preparation for care. The lower level of preparation for care is interpreted as reflecting the uncertainty whether care needs will emerge in the future. Seniors who reported some preparation for death were more likely to report preparation for future care needs as well. Older, more educated, and more religious individuals were more likely to prepare for death. In addition, U.S. seniors were more likely to report some death preparation than German seniors. Limitations in activities of daily living did not predict levels of preparation for death. Implications for future research and for psychosocial interventions are discussed.