Barriers to Hospice Care Transitions Among People with Dementia
Author Information
Author(s): Murali Komal, Wang Gwenneth, Vergez Sasha, McDonald Margaret, Schulman-Green Dena, Brody Abraham, Bullock Karen
Primary Institution: New York University
Hypothesis
What are the barriers to hospice care for racially and ethnically minoritized persons living with dementia?
Conclusion
The study identifies key barriers to hospice care transitions among diverse care partners of people living with dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants expressed a general openness to hospice care but had variable knowledge and misconceptions about it.
- Many care partners lacked understanding of dementia illness trajectories and available end-of-life care options.
- Communication challenges and family decision-making conflicts were common among care partners.
- Care coordination difficulties and limitations in health insurance coverage were significant barriers.
- Cultural aspects of care and language barriers led to conflicts between care partners and home health care staff.
- Care partners wanted to honor the wishes of people living with dementia while making end-of-life decisions.
Takeaway
This study talks about why some people with dementia don't get hospice care, focusing on the challenges their families face.
Methodology
Qualitative interviews and directed content analysis were conducted with diverse care partners of people living with dementia.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the subjective nature of qualitative interviews.
Limitations
The study may not represent all demographics of care partners due to its qualitative nature and specific participant selection.
Participant Demographics
Participants were mostly female adult children of people living with dementia, identifying as Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, or White.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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