Psychosocial Profile of the Attitude Toward Family Organ Donation in People Older Than 65 Years

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The population over 65 years of age is key in the decision to donate organs in its different aspects. We sought to analyze the attitude toward organ donation from a relative among people over 65 years of age and to determine the psychosocial variables that may influence their attitude. METHODS: The study population consisted of citizens over 65 years of age. A representative sample was obtained in southeastern Spain (N = 420). A questionnaire about attitudes toward organ donation and transplantation (ODT) was used. Several psycho-social variables were also taken into account. Statistical analysis included the ?(2) test and multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The completion rate was 84% (n = 351). The favorable attitude toward organ donation from a relative was 53% (n = 184). The univariate analysis showed the influence of information variables, conversations on the subject with family and friends, meeting a donor, acceptance of cremation and autopsy, not being afraid of scars after donation, and carrying out prosocial activities (P < .05). In the multivariate analysis, the desire to carry out activities related to the ODT (odds ratio [OR] 2.06) and the favorable opinion of the partner (OR 3.72) persisted. CONCLUSIONS: The attitude of older people toward organ donation from a relative is unfavorable. This attitude is influenced by various factors, including dialogue with family and friends and the fact that the partner has a favorable opinion regarding this issue. It is important to carry out training activities on ODT in this group in order not to have a negative impact on organ donation rates in the coming years.