Advance directives. Why community-based older adults do not discuss their wishes

Health care providers and family members need direction when making health decisions for individuals who are unable. Advance directives allow individuals to maintain control of health care decisions. Despite that the majority of the population supports the right to express wishes related to end-of-life care, few implement advance directives. The purpose of this study was to determine reasons why community-based older adults discuss, do not discuss, or formalize advance directives. A convenience sample of 55 adults age 50 or older, participated in the study by answering a 31-question self-report questionnaire. Death or serious illness of a loved one was the most influential factor prompting formulation of an advance directive. However, the majority of the population has not expressed their health care wishes in the form of advance directives. Therefore, continuing to educate and encourage discussion of advance directives is imperative.