Attitudes and Perceptions on Advance Care Planning Among Chinese-Speaking Older Australians

Abstract

Background: Current literature indicates low uptake of advance care planning (ACP) among the Chinese-speaking community in Australia. To increase the uptake of ACP among the Chinese-speaking community, a better understanding of their attitudes and perceptions on end-of-life (EOL) matters, and ACP is required. Objective: This study aimed to identify significant events and social and cultural factors that influence participants’ values and characterize the attitudes and perceptions towards ACP among older Chinese-speaking Australians. Methods: A qualitative study explored participants’ experiences through semi-structured one-to-one interviews. The interviews were conducted in Mandarin, Cantonese or English, then translated and transcribed into English. The transcripts were coded and analysed thematically. Results: Twenty participants were recruited (14 female, six male). Participants typically reported a preference to make health-related decisions autonomously. Their perspectives were grounded in past experiences of illnesses and EOL decision-making of loved ones, personal values, and perceived needs. Family dynamics and intimacy of relationships appeared to influence the role and responsibility of family members in EOL decision-making and ACP. Most participants perceived the need to engage in ACP only when encountering significant health changes or higher care needs. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals should initiate ACP discussion using culturally appropriate communication with consideration of personal values, past experiences and family dynamics. Efforts should be invested in raising public awareness of ACP within the Chinese-Australian community.