End-of-life care for older adults with dementia living in group homes in Japan

Aim: The aim of this study was to elucidate the components of end-of-life care provided to older adults with dementia who live in group homes (GHs) in Japan. Introduction: The number of GHs in Japan is rapidly increasing. Although GHs were originally not established to care for elderly people with advanced-stage dementia, many residents remain in the GH even after their stage of dementia advances; thus, end-of-life care is required. Methods: Interviews were conducted with seven GH administrators on their experience in providing end-of-life care to their residents. The constant comparative approach was used for data collection and analysis. Findings: Four themes emerged as essential components of end-of-life care in the GH setting: (i) maintaining a familiar lifestyle; (ii) minimizing physical and mental discomfort; (iii) proactively utilizing desirable medical care; and (iv) collaborating with family members. Conclusion: The combination of the four components seems to be a unique characteristic of end-of-life care in GHs in Japan. These findings may be used to establish a framework for end-of-life care at GHs.