Abstract:

An introduction to a special journal issue on ethics & aging focuses on individual, family, & community ethics involved in the provision of noninstitutional long-term care for the elderly. Shortage of public funds for home- & community-based care, & the lack of qualified home care workers, are discussed. Ethical problems faced by care providers are explored, including the extent of responsibility to work in a neighbourhood known for street violence, value conflicts that occur with families who have different cultural practices, & obligations of family caregivers to fill elderly persons' wishes when the consequences are devastating for other family members. Specific problems related to gender injustice, risk assessment, dignity, & dementia are examined. The conflict of patient autonomy vs the imperative to do good for the patient is discussed, along with the need for practitioners to assess whether their everyday actions sustain the integrity of each person involved.