Seven participants (4 females and 3 males) were interviewed from three out-patient clinics, and voluntary agreed with the study participation orally and in writing. The participants were asked to semi-structured interviews after approval for the study was obtained from the ethical committee from the author’s affiliated institution. Data were analyzed verbatim by content analysis.
Two of the older adults preferred to make health care decision by themselves, describing self-determination, and five preferred family involvement. The physician’s opinion for their health care decision making was most important. However, the family was demanded to be involved in the decision making and played a crucial role. The participants did not mind that they suffered from illnesses, tended to rely on a physician and decided to have a treatment. They did not fight against the illness and tried to spend naturally or live to true themselves. They appreciated family involvement until they became unwell, and appreciated family thinking of them sincerely. And they mostly did not want to trouble their family.
Self-determination is needed for older people in the super-aged society of Japan. This study reports on informed consent established in Japanese healthcare and the older person’s entrustment and reserve toward healthcare professionals because of the traditional ways of thinking. In addition, support based on the older person’s believes, values, and cultural background is important for the decision-making in healthcare.
This study was subsidized by Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C) 26463226, 17K12105, Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.
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