Choice of and comfort with health care proxy among older adults: Hierarchical compensation and perceived similarity in values.

The purpose of this study was to investigate choice of and comfort with health care proxy among older adults (N = 240). Results indicated that choice of proxy follows a hierarchical compensation model. Perceived similarity regarding end-of-life preferences and political views were not associated with comfort with proxy; however, perceived similarity with regards to religious values was associated with comfort with proxy. Attempts to promote advance care planning and advance directives may benefit from emphasizing individuals' choice and autonomy but also their opportunity to designate a health care proxy who they feel represents their religious values.