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.

Overview publication

TitleConsensus definition of advance care planning in dementia: A 33‐country Delphi study
DateNovember 20th, 2023
Issue nameAlzheimer's & Dementia
Issue numberdoi:10.1002/alz.13526
DOI10.1002/alz.13526
Authorsvan der Steen JT, Nakanishi M, Van den Block L, Di Giulio P, Gonella S, in der Schmitten J, Sudore RL, Harrison Dening K, Parker D, Mimica N, Holmerova I, Larkin P, Martins Pereira S, Rietjens JAC & Korfage IJ
InfoEuropean Association for Palliative Care (EAPC)
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