End-of-life care for people with dementia: A thematic review of familial involvement, practices and beliefs

End-of life care for people with dementia is beginning to emerge as a significant concern within the practice arena. Of particular concern is the involvement of family caregivers in key decisions made about end-of-life care. This paper summarizes the results of a review of the literature concerned with the experience of family caregivers in relation to such decision making. Eleven studies are included in the review, and three key themes are outlined: attitudes to end-of-life care; quality of life and a 'good death' and collaboration and communication. The review concludes that the findings are suggestive of the need for greater attention to an inclusive approach to working with family caregivers during this difficult phase of care and that further research is needed.