Can you hear me now? The experience of a deaf family member surrounding the death of loved ones.
BACKGROUND
Individuals who are Deaf face challenges both similar and unique from those faced by hearing individuals when a family member is dying. This study was guided by the question, ''What are the challenges faced by a Deaf family member when a loved one is dying?''


METHODS
This qualitative study is guided by critical theory and an interpretive perspective. Robert, a college-educated older adult who has been Deaf from birth was interviewed in American Sign Language using a death history format.


RESULTS
There are challenges for Deaf family members that affect communication with both the dying person and health care professionals. Patient-family communication issues included physical challenges and financial challenges. Lack of cultural competence concerning the Deaf community created challenges communicating with professionals. Decision-making was also a challenge.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings provide a framework for future research concerning the needs of Deaf individuals facing the end of life and provide guidance for clinicians.
Kehl
Karen A
KA
School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53792-2455, USA. kkehl@wisc.edu
Gartner
Constance M
CM
D000368:Aged; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001293:Attitude to Death; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities / Q000600:supply & distribution; D003144:Communication Barriers; D003638:Deafness; D003643:Death; D003657:Decision Making; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019986:Persons with Hearing Disabilities / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000523:psychology*; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012813:Sign Language; D013727:Terminal Care; D014481:United States