Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Hospice, Decision-making Around Hospice in Older Black Adults

Short stays in hospice strain the Medicare system. Black adults over age 65 are one of the fastest growing groups in the US. Despite greater disease burden than their White peers, older Black adults are less likely to enroll in hospice. Misconceptions about hospice and mistrust may contribute to this disparity. The research will seek to understand older Black adults' decision-making processes around hospice. The PtDA is a tool to assist in this decision-making process. The influence of this tool will be measured as well. The sample of older Black adults will represent the national population. The research will explore various subgroups, which previous research has been unable to address. This study will use four validated survey batteries. About 200 of the 400 participants will also review the decision aid. These adults will complete a second survey. About 20 of these adults will also complete an interview about the decision aid. Through the surveys and interviews, this research will explore barriers to hospice usage for older Black adults.