Informal Caregivers' Experiences of Decision-Making in End-of-Life Care for People with Dementia: A Qualitative Meta-synthesis.

Purpose: This review synthesized qualitative evidence on informal caregivers' experiences in decision-making about end-of-life care for people with dementia. Methods: A meta-aggregation approach based on the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology was applied. Literature searches were conducted across 1...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Journal of Korean Academy of Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing (JKPMHN) Vol. 34; no. 4; pp. 402 - 425
Autores principales: Lee, Heashoon, Park, Jaewon
Formato: research tables/charts meta synthesis Journal Article
Publicado: Korean Academy of Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing Dec2025
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Purpose: This review synthesized qualitative evidence on informal caregivers' experiences in decision-making about end-of-life care for people with dementia. Methods: A meta-aggregation approach based on the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology was applied. Literature searches were conducted across 11 databases including PubMed, as well as ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, OpenGrey, and citation searches for grey literature. The search and study selection were carried out between February 13 and June 28, 2025. Results: Twenty-one qualitative studies involving 502 informal caregivers were included. Three synthesized findings emerged from nine categories: (1) formation and readiness in end-of-life care decision-making, including role assignment, prior discussions, and preparedness; (2) factors and emotional impacts, encompassing barriers, facilitators, decision-making bases, and emotional consequences; and (3) caregivers' needs in end-of-life care decision-making, reflecting their desire to make appropriate decisions for people with dementia and the requirements to do so. Conclusion: This review offers a comprehensive understanding of caregivers' experiences and provides practical insights for healthcare professionals. The findings support the development of guidance to assist caregivers, reduce decision-making burden and emotional distress, and promote more meaningful and satisfactory end-of-life care decisions.