Exploring Differential Perceptions and Barriers to Advance Care Planning in Dementia among Asian Patient–Caregiver Dyads—A Mixed-Methods Study

A parallel mixed-methods study on 20 patient–caregiver dyads in an Asian population was conducted to explore the differential perceptions and barriers ACP dementia. We recruited English-speaking patients with mild dementia their caregivers. trained facilitator counseling. Patient–caregiver completed pre–post surveys participated post-counseling qualitative interviews. used analysis corroborate quantitative data. Differential of were reported among dyads, caregivers less inclined for further discussions. Post-ACP counseling, significantly more likely acknowledge discussions than (57.9% versus 10.5%, p = 0.005). Thematic interview transcripts revealed four themes around ACP: patient-related factors (transference decision making, poor cognition lack understanding, dis-inclination plan future), caregiver-related (perceived negative impact patient, caregiver discomfort, confidence congruent making), socio-cultural (taboos, superstitions, religious beliefs), inappropriate timing In a collectivist culture, pose important barriers, family-centric approach initiation may be first step towards engagement process. For effective caregivers, these should culturally tailored address caregiver, socio-cultural, barriers.