Woman's death reignites euthanasia debate

The euthanasia debate has been reignited by a Melbourne woman who took her own life to escape infirmity in old age.

Although Beverley Broadbent was healthier than many 83-year-olds, she took her own life earlier this year.

But she wanted people to know why.

"I'm not stupid, I'm not depressed," she told Fairfax Media in an honest and moving interview before her death. "I'm not sad, I'm having a good life that I'm enjoying right to the last minute."

Beverley didn't fear death as much as she did the quality of life and care that lay ahead.

"I would rather go a year early, than a year too late," she said.

Claudia Wiehle understands why Beverley decided to choose her own fate.

Her 91-year-old mother is where she never wanted to end up - in a hospital bed, immobile and in pain, after a fall five months ago.

"You just want them to have a wonderful last few years or whatever time they have remaining, if the other option is not available to them," Claudia told Seven News reporter Dean Felton

But pro-lifers fear legalised suicide could mean some elderly people will end their lives prematurely.

Right to Life Victoria advocate Dr Katrina Haller said: "They might feel a pressure from the hospital staff, the hospitals, their family, so the right to die will become a duty to die."

In contrast, euthanasia campaigners say the aged should have the right to determine their own futures.

"I see no reason why we all have to go to the terminus," euthanasia campaigner Dr Rodney Syme said. "Why can't we get off one or two stops before, if we feel that's far enough?"

Support for anyone experiencing personal difficulties is available by calling Lifeline 13 11 14.