An increasing number of spouses in the Netherlands are choosing duoeuthanasia as an end-of-life option.

The BBC reported on the latest case of duoeuthanasia (couple euthanasia) in the Netherlands, involving a couple named Jan and Els, aged 71 and 70, who made the decision to die together. This practice is becoming more common, with an increasing number of couples choosing to end their lives simultaneously.

Jan, who suffered from back pain, and Els, who had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, decided on duoeuthanasia, sparking discussions in the media and medical community. It is important to note that neither spouse was in critical condition at the time of their decision.

Euthanasia and assisted suicide are legally allowed in the Netherlands, but strict criteria must be met. The individual must request to end their life voluntarily, and their suffering must be deemed unbearable and with no chance of improvement by a doctor. Two doctors must independently assess the person’s request before it can be carried out.

In 2023, over 9,000 people in the Netherlands chose euthanasia as a means to end their lives, accounting for about 5% of all deaths. Among these cases, 33 involved couples who decided to die together. Obtaining medical approval for duoeuthanasia can be challenging, especially if one partner has dementia, which raises questions about their ability to consent to the procedure.