A Culturally Adapted Decision Aid Intervention to Support Chinese American Dementia Caregivers in Feeding-Related Decisions

A Culturally Adapted Decision Aid Intervention to Support Chinese American Dementia Caregivers in Feeding-Related Decisions

Family caregivers of people with dementia have to decide between tube feeding and hand feeding when persistent eating problems arise. This decision can be difficult for Chinese American dementia caregivers, due to the interplay of culture, potential absence of a patient's advance directive, poor understanding of dementia, and lack of knowledge on the risks and benefits of tube feeding. In this polit study, the principal investigator examines whether a culturally adapted decision aid intervention regarding feeding options named "Chinese version of Making Choices Feeding Options for Patients with Dementia Decision Aid" (CMCFODA) will improve Chinese American caregivers' decision-making about feeding options in patients with moderate or advanced dementia. The proposed study advances the field by providing critical evidence to inform the development and implementation of culturally adapted decision support interventions in end-of-life dementia care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 21 years and older
• Self-identify as Chinese
• Providing caregiving or involvement in end-of-life care decision-making for older Chinese adults with: a) moderate or advanced dementia, b) feeding difficulties, and c) poor oral intake, eating/swallowing problems, or weight loss

Exclusion Criteria:

• Dementia patients are a) receiving tube feeding, b) enrolled in hospice care, or 3) have a documented preference against a feeding tube