Is futility age related ? Several studies clearly demonstrate that outcome in critically ill elderly patients admitted to an intensive care unit, is more closely related to severity of illness than to age, which has little influence on prognosis. The outcome is closely associated with the severity of the illness, and age is of little influence. However, age based discrimination persists despite current recommendations from medical societies that age should not be used as a criteria for admission to intensive care. The concept of medical futility is influenced by individual or collective subjective values.

Very old patients often are excluded from studies. It is difficult to apply evidence-based medicine in older people as results must be extrapolated from data in younger subjects. Thus, the true benefit of treatment is difficult to assess in the elderly. The image of the older patient, as perceived by younger health care professionals and society has a considerable impact on medical care.

Medical futility is often based on clinical concepts which may lead to legal policies. It is influenced by social and economic factors. Health care professionals have a crucial role but their position, in close proximity to the patient, and its resulting emotional burden can be uncomfortable.

In geriatric medicine, there is a special relationship between patients, relatives, and health professionals which requires genuine communication in order to optimise patients case.

In conclusion, a balanced approach that avoids both overtreatment and therapeutic nihilism is important in order to provide old patients the best possible care.