Awareness and Attitudes Toward Advance Directives among Korean Adults

Kim, Su Hyun

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purposes of this study were to identify awareness and attitudes toward advance directives (ADs) among Korean adults and to examine various opinions in the utilization of ADs among young, middle-aged, and older adults.
METHODS
Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 384 adults selected by a quota sampling method on the basis of age.
RESULTS
The majority of participants preferred that they themselves would be the primary decision maker. Most of them were unaware of the option of ADs but supported the utilization of ADs. Most of the participants preferred detailed descriptions on end-of-life decisions in ADs but wanted to allow some leeway in following it. Significant differences were found among age groups in terms of the preferences regarding the utilization of ADs.
CONCLUSION
It is suggested that nurses make efforts to educate the general public about ADs and facilitate advance care planning, which focuses on the process of communication on end-of-life preferences within the social network of relationships.