This would enable older adults to access medications regardless of ability to pay. It would also improve access to services for underserved and vulnerable populations.

Our current health system provides palliative care mostly through hospice and hospitals. As a result, health care providers' radar may be set to miss older adults unless they have a reason to become hospitalized.

Regardless of wealth, older Americans carry an unacceptable burden of suffering in their last year of life. The older adults we studied who lived in the community suffered as much in their last year of life as do younger people who are severely ill and hospitalized.

No single group has more to offer in terms of experience, maturity and demonstrated ability.

Once people see me and listen to me and see how my decisions go then they'll get a better feeling that I am more independent and can go to both sides.

And what that translates into is the public distrust of decisions or lack of respect.