This qualitative study will examine how older people with supportive care needs experience later life, what preparations they make for the end of life and what supports or undermines their sense of dignity, when they become dependent on the support of others. Dignity is understood as encompassing respect, recognition, autonomy, independence and identity.
Located in Bristol and Nottingham, the research will be conducted over 3 years with 40 people aged 75 and over who will be selected because of their need for support and care. The relatively longitudinal approach will enable us to identify how perceptions of dignity change with changing circumstances and how others who provide care and support influence these perceptions. Through its focus on the experiences and perceptions of older participants this research has the potential to enhance understanding of dignity and therefore to be of benefit to health and social care policies and practice.