End of life, assisted dying and geriatrics: results of a national survey conducted by the French Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology

In the context of ongoing societal and legislative debates in France on end-of-life care, the French Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology (SFGG) conducted a national survey to assess the perceptions and expectations of professionals working in the field of ageing regarding assisted dying (AD). An anonymous online questionnaire was distributed in November-December 2024 to all 1,600 SFGG members. The survey collected 471 responses, 90% of which were from physicians, on knowledge of the current legal framework, positions on changes in legislation, anticipated professional impacts, and patient feedback. Among respondents, 58.6% report having a clear understanding of the current legal framework and applying it regularly, while 39.7% have only partial knowledge of it. Regarding the desired evolution of the law, 27.5% wish to maintain the current legislative framework, and 41.8% of respondents reject all proposed forms of assisted dying. This suggests that the very way the debate is framed may not align with their clinical or ethical perspectives. Should the law evolve, 25.9% would support assisted suicide supervised by a medical team, 17.8% would favor assisted suicide facilitated by an association, 9.1% would support the issuance of a lethal prescription for self-administration by the patient, and 7.2% would favor euthanasia, defined as the direct administration of a lethal substance by a healthcare professional. Only 12.5% reported not having a definitive opinion. In the event of legalization of assisted dying, 48.2% of respondents would consider invoking a conscience clause, 24.0% might consider leaving their position, and 21.9% would be willing to participate in its implementation. Finally, 68.2% believe that the SFGG should take an active part in the public debate. The national French survey highlights a wide range of opinions among geriatric professionals, reflecting both cautious support for certain forms of AD and deep ethical and professional concerns. These findings underscore the need for a well-informed, ethically grounded debate that carefully considers the specific vulnerabilities of older adults.