does dementia qualify for euthanisia in swiss exit clinics

In Switzerland, assisted suicide, also known as euthanasia, is allowed under certain conditions. The country has a unique approach to this issue, with organizations like Dignitas and Exit (also known as "exit clinics") providing support and assistance to individuals who wish to end their lives.

Regarding dementia, the situation is complex. In Switzerland, individuals with dementia can, in theory, qualify for assisted suicide, but there are strict conditions and guidelines that must be met.

Conditions for assisted suicide in Switzerland:

1. The person must be of sound mind and able to make informed decisions.
2. They must have a terminal illness or an incurable condition that causes unbearable suffering.
3. They must have a minimum of six months’ life expectancy.
4. They must be able to administer the lethal medication themselves.

Dementia and assisted suicide in Switzerland:

In 2020, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court ruled that individuals with dementia can access assisted suicide, provided they have made an advance directive (a written statement expressing their wishes) while still competent. This means that if someone with dementia has made it clear in writing that they want to end their life if their condition worsens, they may be eligible for assisted suicide.

However, there are additional requirements:

1. The person must have been diagnosed with dementia by a medical professional.
2. They must have made an advance directive that specifically requests assisted suicide in the event of severe dementia.
3. The advance directive must have been written while the person was still competent and able to make informed decisions.
4. A medical professional must confirm that the person’s condition has progressed to a point where they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves.

Exit clinics’ policies:

Organizations like Exit and Dignitas have their own policies and guidelines regarding assisted suicide for individuals with dementia. While they may consider requests from people with dementia, they typically require additional assessments and evaluations to ensure that the person is competent to make decisions and that their condition meets the necessary criteria.

In summary, while dementia can qualify for euthanasia in Swiss exit clinics, the conditions and guidelines are strict, and the process is complex. Individuals with dementia must have made an advance directive while still competent, and their condition must meet specific criteria.