'A Good Ending' published in The Guardian, 9 June 2009

Alex Mair, Chief Executive British Geriatrics Society said: “It is essential that health and social care staff are trained in the skills to communicate and discuss end of life care with patients and their carers.  They should be able to assess their needs and agree a care plan which takes account of their preferences and choices.   All patients have a right to coordinated care and support, irrespective of their condition and where they are receiving care.  Roles such as Trea McNally’s are vital to ensure that patients and their carers are treated with compassion and respect and can face death with dignity.”

For further information, please contact the Press Officer at the British Geriatrics Society on 020 7608 8573 or 07766 227724 or email press@bgs.org.uk

Notes to Editors

1. The British Geriatrics Society (BGS) is a membership association of doctors, nurses, therapists, scientists and others with a particular interest in the care of the frail older person and in promoting better health in old age. 
2. The BGS strives to promote better understanding of the healthcare needs of older people and to share examples of best practice to ensure that older patients are treated with dignity and respect by all clinical staff they come into contact with.
3. The BGS supports research into age-related conditions.  It holds two annual conferences, one in Spring and one in Autumn, in order to provide platforms for scientific research to be shared.
4. he BGS welcomes any healthcare professional with a particular interest in the care of older people to join the society and to benefit