Abstract
Introduction
Advance directives (AdvDirs) align end-of-life care with personal values, averting unnecessary treatments. This study explores factors influencing AdvDir completion.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study with community-dwelling adults (n = 166) age range 18-93, using a survey to gather sociodemographics, beliefs, and AdvDir experiences. Multivariate logistic regression quantifies associations between selected covariates and AdvDir completion.
Results
We found that 36% of respondents had completed AdvDirs. The majority were comfortable discussing death (77%) and end-of-life care (84%) and recognized the importance of AdvDirs (79%). Age, education level, self-perceived health status, exposure to end-of-life planning, and the preference to limit treatment in potential future Alzheimer’s scenarios significantly influenced AdvDir completion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study highlights: (1) The need for age-specific, personalized AdvDir education initiatives, and (2) The necessity of intensified AdvDir awareness efforts, particularly for individuals favoring unlimited treatment in Alzheimer’s or dementia scenarios.
Keywords
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