Although many experts say that feeding tubes are inefficient in terms of improving quality of life or survival rates for elderly individuals, they are still in use in many parts of the country. According to a survey published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, more discussions need to be held between doctors and family caregivers when it comes to deciding whether to surgically place a feeding tube.

The researchers discovered that 13.7 percent of respondents said that their relative had received a feeding tube without discussion, while 11.2 reported feeling pressured by the physician to have one placed.

Although 38.2 percent said that they believed the doctor was strongly in favor of feeding tube insertion, about the same percentage of individuals reported that there was no prior discussion.

"Our results suggest that in these states with a high rate of feeding tube insertion, we need to improve decision-making so that the [choice] to insert a feeding tube is based on a process that elicits and respects the patients' wishes," Teno explained.