Disclaimer

These recommendations published by The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) incorporate data obtained from a literature review of the most recent studies available at the time. As with all clinical reference resources, they reflect the best understanding of the science of medicine at the time of publication, but they should be used with the clear understanding that continued research may result in new knowledge and recommendations. These Recommendations are intended for general information only, are not medical advice, and do not replace professional medical care and physician advice, which always should be sought for any specific condition.

DESCRIPTION

This position statement, developed by the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Ethics Committee, outlines new guidance on care and decision-making for a unique and growing group of older adults: the “unbefriended.” As an update to earlier guidance released in 1996, the AGS Ethics Committee developed these new recommendations in collaboration with the AGS Clinical Practice and Models of Care Committee and the AGS Public Policy Committee with additional input from the Committee’s Ethnogeriatrics Liaison.