Communication of Long-Term Care Plans Among Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Olvera Charlie, Miller-Winder Amber, Murawski Alaine, Ramirez-Zohfeld Vanessa, Lindquist Lee
Primary Institution: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What factors increase the likelihood of communication of long-term care plans among older adults?
Conclusion
Older adults with higher health literacy, social support, and legal directives are more likely to communicate their long-term care plans.
Supporting Evidence
- Subjects were more likely to communicate AD LTC plans if they were married, had advanced directives, or higher health literacy.
- Higher health activation and perceived social support also increased the likelihood of communication.
- Legal documents like living wills and power of attorney were associated with better communication of care plans.
Takeaway
Older adults need to talk about their care plans, and those who are married or have legal documents like living wills are better at it.
Methodology
The study used a tool called PlanYourLifespan to assess long-term care decision-making and followed up with subjects every 6 months.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 73.5, 72.7% female, 40.4% underrepresented minorities.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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