Older people¿s preferences for self-involvement in decision-making if faced with serious illness

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2020

Authors

Jorge, R (Author) Other; Calanzani, N (Author) Other; Freitas, A (Author) Other; Rui Nunes (Author) FMUP; Sousa, L (Author) Other

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: Geriatrics, Gerontology and Aging

Vol. 28

Pages: 81-90

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00T-42P

DOI: 10.5327/z2447-212320202000089

Abstract (EN): <jats:p>OBJECTIVES: To examine older people¿s preferences for self-involvement in end-of-life care decision-making in scenarios of mental capacity (competency) and incapacity, and to identify associated factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted including 400 individuals aged 60+ years living in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. RESULTS: Among 400 respondents, 95.3% preferred self-involvement when capable (due to the high percentage, associated factors were not calculated) and 64.5% preferred self-involvement when incapable through, for example, a living will. Considering that participants could choose multiple answers, the most frequent combinations in the capacity scenario were ¿yourself¿ and ¿other relatives¿ (76.8%) and ¿yourself¿ and ¿the doctor¿ (67.8%). In the incapacity scenario, the most frequent combinations were ¿yourself¿ and ¿other relatives¿ (usually their children and, less often, their grandchildren) (59.3%) and ¿yourself¿ and ¿the doctor¿ (48.5%). Three factors were associated with a preference for self-involvement in an incapacity scenario. Those who were married or had a partner (widowed; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.19¿0.68) and those who were male (female; AOR = 0.62; 95%CI 0.38¿1.00) were less likely to prefer self-involvement. Those who were younger, as in age bands 60-69 years (80+; AOR = 2.35; 95%CI 1.20¿4.58) and 70¿79 years (80+; AOR = 2.45; 95%CI 1.21¿4.94), were more likely to prefer self-involvement. CONCLUSIONS: Most participants preferred self-involvement in both scenarios of capacity and incapacity. Preference for self-involvement was higher in the scenario of capacity, while preference for the involvement of other relatives (usually their children) was greater in the scenario of incapacity.</jats:p>

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific