This Canadian study explored the understanding of older adults with heart failure and their caregivers. 19 participants took part. The found participants were knowledgeable about the condition but limited in their understanding of the consequences of the illness. Participants did not recognise that deterioration in the condition as part of the decline towards end of life and had not engaged in end of life discussions. The study concluded healthcare professionals need to ensure older adults and caregivers understand the consequences of deterioration and care plans align with their preferences and needs as they advance towards end of life.
Im, J. et al. 2019. 'The Future is Probably Now': Understanding of illness, uncertainty and end-of-life discussions in older adults with heart failure and family caregivers. Health Expectations, 22 (6) p 1331 - 1340.
Available to download