Improving the Quality of Life of African Americans Receiving Palliative Care

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the effects of personal characteristics on quality of life (QOL) among African Americans receiving palliative care. Although an important goal of palliative care is to improve the client’s QOL, no studies were found examining the QOL of African Americans receiving palliative care. The study sample included African Americans receiving palliative care in inpatient settings or through enrollment in a hospice program. Data were collected using a structured interview guided by five questionnaires to measure QOL, physical performance, spirituality, social support, and family support/satisfaction. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson r correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis. The total sample ( N = 16) was predominately single, female, and 50 to 59 years old. There was a significant relationship between QOL and religious and spiritual coping and between QOL and social support. Participant recruitment was a significant issue in this study.