Assessing Barriers to Advance Care Planning Engagement among Young Adults Using the Precaution Adoption Process Model

Abstract

Purpose Assess the stage of readiness and barriers to ACP engagement among young adults in the United States utilizing the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM). Methods A cross-sectional survey design was utilized to survey U.S. adults aged 18–35 through an online marketplace workforce (N = 414). Results Most (94.7%) had not engaged in comprehensive ACP. Young adults aged 18–29 reported higher perceived barriers scores to complete ACP than those aged 30–35. The perceived barriers score was significantly associated with stage of readiness for ACP ( p = .004); those who were unaware (stage 1) or did not want to engage in ACP (stage 4) reported more barriers to ACP engagement. Conclusion The PAPM is a useful framework for assessing barriers and tailoring programs for ACP engagement. Future research should further assess barriers for young adults to engage in ACP, particularly relating to stages of readiness.