Hospice Care Preferences and Its Associated Factors among Community-Dwelling Residents in China

Abstract

Hospice care is a comprehensive approach addressing patients’ physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs at the end of life (EoL). Despite the recognition of its effectiveness in improving the quality of EoL care, little is known about hospice care in mainland China. In this study, we aimed to examine the preferences for hospice care and its related factors among community-dwelling residents in mainland China. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling method, and 992 community-dwelling residents responded to an online survey from June 2018 to August 2019. The majority (66.7%) of the participants were female, and the mean age was 48.4 years. Approximately 28% of the participants had heard of hospice care, and 91.2% preferred to receive hospice care if diagnosed with a terminal illness. Participants who had heard of hospice care, and with higher levels of education (bachelor’s degree or above) and health insurance coverage were more likely to accept hospice care than their counterparts. Community-based education on hospice care is imperative to improve public knowledge and the acceptance of hospice care. Meanwhile, there is a need to develop policies to integrate and expand hospice care into clinical settings.

Analysis on the willingness and influencing factors of choosing hospice care service institutions among among older people in Wuhu, China: a cross-sectional study

“…It is crucial to prioritise the preferences of individuals who opt for spending their final moments in the comfort of their own residences. As such, it is crucial that hospice and palliative care services extend beyond traditional hospital or hospice settings, allowing for a more personalised and compassionate approach to end-of-life care 32. By providing these essential services outside of formal institutions, patients can receive the support they need while maintaining a sense of familiarity and security within their own surroundings 33.…”

“…As such, it is crucial that hospice and palliative care services extend beyond traditional hospital or hospice settings, allowing for a more personalised and compassionate approach to end-of-life care. 32 By providing these essential services outside of formal institutions, patients can receive the support they need while maintaining a sense of familiarity and security within their own surroundings. 33 This not only enhances their quality of life but also provides peace of mind for loved ones who may be caring for them during this difficult time.…”

Qualitative study on the perception of good death in patients with end-stage cancer in oncology nurses

“…To enhance public education on hospice care, it is essential to develop and implement culturally appropriate educational programs systematically. By tailoring these programs to the specific cultural context, we can effectively address the barriers and taboos surrounding discussions about death and promote understanding and acceptance of hospice care [50]. It is the premise of realizing "good death", and the ability of nurses should be improved.…”

Oncology nursing on the move: a contemporary issue on Chinese oncology nursing in cancer care

“…Commensurate oncology nursing must match this rapid increase in cancer incidence and mortality in palliative care, end-of-life care, and pain management. However, even though cancer is the leading cause of death in China, little was known about cancer-related end-of-life care until recently, when it began receiving increasing attention ( 60 , 61 ).…”