End-of-life care in Care and Attention Homes: perceptions from formal caregivers and residents

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate perceptions of formal caregivers and residents on end-of-life care in Care and Attention Homes in Hong Kong. METHOD: Standardized questionnaire was conducted among 135 formal caregivers, 50 residents and 51 family caregivers on their perceptions and expectations. Trained research assistants administered face-to-face interviews to residents and family caregivers. A staff survey was self-administered. RESULTS: Even though 68% of surveyed residents and 80% of surveyed family caregivers showed a preference to die in the Care and Attention Home instead of a hospital, only 2% of the surveyed residents and 29% of the surveyed family caregivers were aware of advance-directives. 76% of surveyed residents and 84% of surveyed family caregivers said family members were expected to be involved in the decision making process. CONCLUSION: Residents and their family caregivers desired to enhance end-of-life care in Care and Attention homes. However, they seemed to lack an understanding of relevant knowledge.