Advance care planning in long-term care facilities

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Management
• Bioethics

Background:

• Long-term care residents face significant health risks and communication barriers during critical medical decisions.
• Advance care planning (ACP) is crucial for ensuring resident autonomy when they cannot express their wishes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the value and implementation of advance care planning (ACP) in long-term care settings.
• To outline the key steps involved in the advance care planning process.
• To provide practical strategies for developing and implementing successful ACP programs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing advance care planning programs in long-term care.
• Analysis of the three core components of advance care planning: consideration, communication, and documentation.
• Synthesis of findings to offer practical implementation suggestions.

Main Results:

• Advance care planning (ACP) enables residents to articulate preferences for future medical care.
• Successful ACP programs involve clear consideration of options, effective communication, and thorough documentation.
• The literature highlights the positive impact of structured ACP on resident autonomy and decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Advance care planning (ACP) is essential for safeguarding the rights and preferences of long-term care residents.
• Implementing comprehensive ACP programs requires a systematic approach addressing consideration, communication, and documentation.
• Practical strategies can enhance the development and effectiveness of ACP in long-term care facilities.