A new perspective on threatened autonomy in elderly persons: the disempowering process

This study explored factors other than medical condition and treatments which contributed to the discharge experiences of 12 rural and 9 urban patients. Interpretive research methodology included document review, observation and in-depth interviews of all key participants. The purposefully selected sample consisted of a total of 21 patients, 22 informal caregivers, and 117 professionals involved in the hospital and/or home setting. Findings document a new perspective on how patients and professionals together contribute to the patient's threatened autonomy. Lack of clarity about goals, aspirations, and purpose in life and a generally negative frame of mind in the elderly combine with professional practice approaches to create a disempowering process. Faced with the biomedical orientation and paternalism of professionals, patients with a positive mindset and sense of direction and purpose in life did not experience threat to their autonomy. The researchers conclude that empowerment strategies must encompass a patient-centred approach, which includes an understanding of the patient's mindset, goals, aspirations, and sense of purpose within a larger life context. This consideration is essential to enable elderly patients to maintain autonomy despite continued health care requirements.