Despite recent advancements, some individuals with HIV do not respond to treatment or eventually become terminally ill. These individuals are advised to plan their future health care in case they become unable to make decisions for themselves. This study assessed baseline and 3-month follow-up experiences, knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and behavior concerning Advanced Directives (ADs) of 344 people living with HIV in a randomized trial of a video package designed to influence behavioral outcome (i.e. making an AD). At baseline, participants felt moderately well informed about ADs and held a few misconceptions about ADs. They rated as the greatest benefit "making things easier for loved ones," and identified as obstacles "not knowing enough about ADs" and "difficulty discussing one's future illness." Practical concerns were not considered obstacles. At follow-up, 20 (7%) of 290 participants had made an AD. Compared to those who did not make an AD, they were, at baseline, less healthy (as measured by T-cells and viral load) and had felt better informed, but otherwise differed little. Participants in the intervention group felt better informed about ADs and were less influenced by drawbacks, but did not differ significantly in knowledge, intent, or number who made an AD. However, comparing participants according to whether they actually watched the video and/or read the materials, those who did so felt better informed, were more knowledgeable, and were less influenced by drawbacks of ADs. Furthermore, more of those who used the materials had thought about, talked about, and intended to make an AD. See www.neri.org/advance_directives
Learning Objectives: To learn about the experiences, knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and behavior of people living with HIV concerning health care advance directives.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, End-of-Life Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: New England Research Institutes
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment