The Relationship of Faith-Related Characteristics to Attitudes and Behaviors Regarding End-of-Life Care

Abstract

The effects of faith-related characteristics on attitudes toward end-of-life (EOL) care were examined using the Pew Research Center’s (2014) Survey of Aging and Longevity. Results showed that frequency of religious service attendance and importance of religion were related to less support for the right to end one’s life or for stopping medical treatment due to pain/incapacitation, while frequency of prayer was associated with less support for stopping medical treatment. Similarly, Evangelical Christians and those who identified as “other Christian” were least likely to support these outcomes, while those with no religious affiliation were most likely to support them. Individuals identifying as “other Christian” and those with no religious affiliation were most likely to have prepared an advance directive.