Most Americans prefer to die at home, but the US healthcare system often prevents it

‘Fix-it’ medical approaches often go against people’s wishes near the end of life, creating unnecessary and preventable suffering.

By: Karen Lutfey Spencer, University of Colorado Denver and Jane Callahan, North Carolina Central University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 14, 2026

Words: 1,491

Last Updated: 1 week ago

Body Text Preview

By Karen Lutfey Spencer, University of Colorado Denver and Jane Callahan, North Carolina Central University

Ask people what they want at the end of their lives, and overwhelmingly the answers will revolve around comfort, dignity and time at home with loved ones.

Yet the U.S. healthcare system often thwarts these wishes.

Most Americans say they want to die at home, but only one-third do. What could be an intentional last chapter …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us