Perception and attitudes to end of life planning and implications for social work practice in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined perceptions of end of life planning by 80 adults selected using a multistage sampling technique. Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) of 10 discussants each were used to collect data, while analysis was done thematically. Participants are not ready to engage in end of life planning because doing so seems like beckoning death. When participants saw the need to plan for end of life it was because of the negative consequences that occur after the death of a principal family member. Therefore, social workers are encouraged to utilize various measures to address the consequences linked to lack of end of life planning.