Attitudes towards euthanasia in the context of fear of death among physiotherapists and caregivers of patients with paresis

Background: The permissibility of euthanasia raises many moral dilemmas, dividing the general public on this matter. Attitudes towards euthanasia depend on socio-cultural (age, beliefs) and individual factors (personality traits or working in medical professions). Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to establish attitudes towards euthanasia and the level of anxiety before death among people in close contact with persons suffering from paresis. The hypotheses assumed that contact with disabled patients, who require constant care, and the type of such contact, modify the perceived fear of death and attitudes towards euthanasia. Material and methods: Two clinical groups were involved in the study: physiotherapists dealing with stroke rehabilitation, family caregivers permanently taking care of close relatives of cerebral stroke survivors. The results of the two groups were compared to those of the control group, who were individuals with no personal experience in the care of patients with paresis. Attitudes towards euthanasia were measured in three dimensions: information support, liberal attitudes and conservative attitudes. Results: The results showed no intergroup differences in two dimensions: liberal attitude and the fear of death. Physiotherapists were the least conservative in their attitudes in comparison to other participants and they appreciated the information support more than participants from the control group. Conclusions: The results indicated that everyday contact with the patients suffering from paresis can increase conservative attitudes toward euthanasia but only among caregivers. (English)