Authors (including presenting author) :
Wu OH(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Medicine, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Introduction :
In view of the ageing population and the prevalence of chronic diseases in Hong Kong, the demand for medical services will be huge, especially in palliative care and end-of-life care. Advance Care Planning is an important component of end-of-life care which gained international attention for its perceived benefits. Many people have different opinions on Advance Care Planning and discussion on end-of-life care issues. However, the literature related to the attitudes on Advance Care Planning among the Chinese frail elderly in the acute hospital setting was limited.
Objectives :
(1) To explore the attitudes among the Chinese frail patients aged 65 or above in acute hospital setting regarding Advance Care Planning; and (2) to investigate their views on discussing end-of-life care issues.
Methodology :
A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was used to understand the attitudes toward Advance Care Planning among the Chinese frail patients aged 65 or above in an acute hospital setting. Also, their views on discussing end-of-life care issues were explored.
Result & Outcome :
Eleven male patients were consented to participate in the interview. Findings of the interviews were categorised into four categories: (a) misconceptions of Advance Care Planning; (b) individuality on decision making of end-of-life care and Advance Care Planning; (c) the role of healthcare professionals and the preferred timing for proposing Advance Care Planning; and (d) usefulness of Advance Care Planning. In conclusion, there was an increasing proportion of the Chinese frail elderly who are willing to discuss end-of-life issues and Advance Care Planning. Most of them appreciated the perceived benefits of Advance Care Planning. A small group of the elderly was not familiarised with Advance Care Planning and believed it might lead to a negative feeling. In order to strengthen the services related to palliative care and end-of-life care, further development and promotion of Advance Care Planning are needed to enhance the understanding of the public and encourage more people to initiate this conversation. Therefore, more people can experience the benefits of planning ahead to their end-of-life.
