Abstract
Older persons often lack the assurance that their needs, wishes, and preferences will be respected. This is the first project in Mexico to involve older adults and family caregivers in end-of-life care discussions. The aim is to better understand concerns around end-of-life issues. This qualitative, phenomenological study used listening events held in 6 culturally, socially, and geographically diverse areas to discuss end-of-life issues with older adults and family caregivers. Framework analysis was used to classify and organize data according to key themes, concepts, and emergent categories. Data were reviewed and discussed until consensus was reached. A total of 121 persons participated. Six major themes were expressed: (1) lack of knowledge of advance directives, (2) little concern regarding pain management and do-not-resuscitate orders and opposition to euthanasia, (3) need for home care training, (4) male caregivers, (5) importance of religious faith, and (6) preferences of dying. Important information was obtained about preferences and concerns of older adults and their caregivers, and a discussion forum was provided. Participants wanted respect from the health care team, to be accompanied by family and religious leaders, and to have a pleasant environment in their final days. Caregivers coped using reciprocity, a work-oriented attitude, pride in caregiving, and faith.