The New Age of Organ Donation—What Factors Have an Influence on the Attitude of Older People? An Attitudinal Survey in Southeastern Spain

Abstract

Currently, more than half of all donors are aged over 65 years, and previous studies have shown that this group is less willing to support organ donation. Objective: to analyse the attitude of people aged over 65 years toward organ donation and transplantation (ODT) and to determine how their psychosocial profile affects their attitude. Study population: citizens residing in southeastern Spain older than 65 years of age. A representative sample was obtained, which was stratified by gender and geographical location (n = 420). A validated questionnaire about ODT was used. Statistical analysis: a bivariate analysis was performed using the X2 test and a multivariate analysis. The favourable attitude toward the donation of one’s own organs was 53%. The psychosocial variables affecting attitude were mainly: having discussed ODT with one’s family (p < 0.001) or friends (OR 2.223), acceptance of cremation (OR 2.508), and acceptance of an autopsy (OR 2.578). Citizens aged over 65 tend to have an unfavourable attitude toward the donation of their own organs. The lack of dialogue about ODT in social and family settings, and the attitude to the manipulation of one’s own body after death, are aspects of a respondent’s psychosocial profile, which influence this attitude.