Rainsford, Suzanne; Phillips, Christine B.; Glasgow, Nicholas J.; MacLeod, Roderick D.; Wiles, Robert B.
It was found that a ‘safe death’ was central to a ‘good death’ and was described as a death in which one could maintain (1) a connection with one’s previous identity; (2) autonomy and control over decisions regarding management of end-of-life care and (3) not being overwhelmed by the physical management of the dying process. For all participants, the preferred place of death was the ‘safe place’, regardless of its physical location. The authors conclude that a home death is not essential for and does not ensure a ‘good death’.