What Does “Patient-Centered” Mean? Qualitative Perspectives from Older Adults and Family Caregivers

• Main Authors: Minakshi Raj PhD, Jodyn E. Platt PhD, Denise Anthony PhD, James T. Fitzgerald PhD, Shoou-Yih Daniel Lee PhD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publishing 2021-05-01
• Series: Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1177/23337214211017608

This study aimed to (1) examine what patient-centeredness means for older adults and family caregivers, and (2) assess circumstances underlying their preference for geriatric care. We conducted separate focus groups with older adults and family caregivers of older adults about health care experiences and expectations and conducted a vignette-based experiment to assess preference for geriatric care. Participants expressed a need for greater skill and empathy and integration of caregivers. They preferred geriatric care to usual primary care with increasing social, health, and healthcare complexity. Distinct needs of older adults should be considered in referral practices to geriatric medicine.