Korean J Adult Nurs.  2017 Aug;29(4):373-381. 10.7475/kjan.2017.29.4.373.

The Influence of Social Support among Community Dwelling Elderly and their Attitude towards the Withdrawal of Life-sustaining Treatment: A Mediating Effect of Self-esteem

• Kim HS
• Shin SR

• KMID: 2406364
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7475/kjan.2017.29.4.373

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to examine the mediation of Self-Esteem in the relationship between Social Support and attitude toward the Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Treatment (WLST) for community dwelling elderly in order to provide a basis for planning nursing interventions to improve the attitude of elderly.
METHODS
The participants were 252 elderly residing in Seoul. The data were collected through a questionnaire survey distributed in March, 2016. The survey included scales on Social Support, attitude towards WLST and measures of Self-esteem. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 21.0 program.
RESULTS
The mean score for the attitude towards WLST was 73.83. Self-Esteem was 29.44. Overall Social Support was 42.51. There were significant correlations among the three variables. Self-esteem was directly affected by the attitude (R²=24%). Attitude towards WLST was directly affected by Family Support. Family Support and Self-esteem affected by the attitude on WLST (R²=19%). Self-esteem had a partial mediating effect (β=.23, p < .001) in the relationship between Family Support and reported attitude from the WLST (Sobel test: Z=4.93, p < .001).
CONCLUSION
Based on the findings of this study, programs can be created focusing on Social Support and Self-Esteem improvement. The programs may positively change the elderly's attitude towards WLST.

MeSH Terms

Aged*
Humans
Independent Living*
Negotiating*
Nursing
Self Concept
Seoul
Weights and Measures
Withholding Treatment

Figure

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  Figure 1. Mediating effect of self-esteem in the relationship between social support, and attitude towards the withdrawal of life- sustaining treatment.

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