Consensus definition of advance care planning in dementia: A 33-country Delphi study

Jenny T. van der Steen*, Miharu Nakanishi, Lieve Van den Block, Paola Di Giulio, Silvia Gonella, Jürgen in der Schmitten, Rebecca L. Sudore, Karen Harrison Dening, Deborah Parker, Ninoslav Mimica, Iva Holmerova, Philip Larkin, Sandra Martins Pereira, Judith A.C. Rietjens, Ida J. Korfage

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

10 Citations (Scopus)
32 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: 

Existing advance care planning (ACP) definitional frameworks apply to individuals with decision-making capacity. We aimed to conceptualize ACP for dementia in terms of its definition and issues that deserve particular attention. 

METHODS: 

Delphi study with phases: (A) adaptation of a generic ACP framework by a task force of the European Association for Palliative Care (EAPC); (B) four online surveys by 107 experts from 33 countries, September 2021 to June 2022; (C) approval by the EAPC board. 

RESULTS: 

ACP in dementia was defined as a communication process adapted to the person's capacity, which includes, and is continued with, family if available. We identified pragmatic boundaries regarding participation and time (i.e., current or end-of-life care). Three interrelated issues that deserve particular attention were capacity, family, and engagement and communication. 

DISCUSSION: 

A communication and relationship-centered definitional framework of ACP in dementia evolved through international consensus supporting inclusiveness of persons with dementia and their family. Highlights: This article offers a consensus definitional framework of advance care planning in dementia. The definition covers all stages of capacity and includes family caregivers. Particularly important are (1) capacity, (2) family, (3) engagement, and communication. Fluctuating capacity was visualized in relation to roles and engaging stakeholders.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1309-1320
Number of pages12
JournalAlzheimer's and Dementia
Volume20
Issue number2
Early online date20 Nov 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023 The Authors. Alzheimer's & Dementia published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Alzheimer's Association.

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