What Matters Most at the End-of-Life for Chinese Americans?

  • Lee M
  • Hinderer K
  • Alexander C
N/ACitations
Citations of this article
66Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

Background: To provide optimal end-of-life (EOL) care in the Chinese American population, we need to have a better understanding of what matters most at EOL from their perspective. Experiencing a “good death” at the EOL is the optimal goal of palliative care. Studies show that the meaning and description of good death varies across cultures in different populations. In the United States, Chinese Americans comprise the largest Asian demographic. Aim: To describe EOL wishes, which define a good death for Chinese Americans. Method: Qualitative study using focus groups. A convenience sample of 60 Chinese Americans was recruited from a community organization in Maryland. Ten focus group discussion sessions were conducted. Results: Wishes at the EOL that defined a good death for the participants in this study included being pain-free, not being a burden to family, being with family, having a trusted physician, maintaining dignity, and prayer. Conclusion: A good death is a complex concept. What matters most to patients at the EOL differs depending on their cultural background. When caring for Chinese Americans, a comprehensive EOL care plan should include cultural considerations in addition to physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Lee, M. C., Hinderer, K. A., & Alexander, C. S. (2018). What Matters Most at the End-of-Life for Chinese Americans? Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, 4, 233372141877819. https://doi.org/10.1177/2333721418778195

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free