Sammanfattning
Background: “Several elderly patients express a wish to die». The existential impact of age
related loss plays an important role in the development of the wish to die. Other contributory
factors are: personal characteristics, biological components, social context, percep-
tions and values. Aim: To explore the experiences, perceptions and initiatives of home
healthcare professionals when dealing with elderly patients who no longer wish to live.
Methods: Qualitative focus group interviews were conducted with eight home healthcare
workers in three communities in Norway. Results: One theme emerged: When life no
longer has any meaning, based on the following five sub-themes: Loss of hope, A cry for
help, Lack of the will to live, The feeling of being a burden to someone, Loneliness and lack
of a social network. Conclusion: Health personnel working in home care have an important
responsibility for the development of guidance and support strategies for elderly
patients living at home in order to meet their specific health needs.