Role of Children in End-of-Life Treatment Planning Among Korean American Older Adults

Abstract

Three focus groups (n = 23) with Korean American older adults explored the role of culture in end-of-life decision making. No participants had completed an advance directive and few had discussed end-of-life treatment preferences. Focus group themes addressed: (a) whether children are resistant or receptive to discussing their parents' end-of-life treatment preferences; (b) whether the older adults or their children should make decisions about end-of-life treatment; (c) whether decision making should be the responsibility of the eldest son or of all the children; and (d) whether children would implement the parent's preferences for end-of-life treatment. Understanding the role of children in end-of-life decision making among Korean American older adults is important for culturally competent care.

KEYWORDS:

• advance care planning
• culture
• end of life
• filial piety
• Korean American older adults

This research was supported by a Faculty Research Grant from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service.