Abstract
Introduction: Advance care planning (ACP) is a process allowing individuals to communicate their healthcare preferences in advance, ensuring medical care aligns with their values, beliefs, and desired level of intervention. Through proactive discussions and documentation, ACP enhances quality of care, preserves patient autonomy, and reduces the burden on families and clinicians. Despite its recognized importance, ACP conversations remain infrequent in many primary care and community settings. Educational initiatives promoting understanding and normalizing ACP conversations can improve engagement and empower individuals. Purpose: To evaluate and enhance the readiness of adults residing in a retirement community to participate in ACP. Methodology: The intervention consisted of a structured educational presentation, participation in the Hello game, and follow-up contacts at four and eight weeks. Participants completed a demographic form and the 9-Item Advance Care Planning Engagement Survey to assess baseline readiness. Participants were then asked to answer same questions post-intervention to evaluate change. The Hello game was used to prompt meaningful conversations about life values, end-of-life preferences, and family involvement. The follow-up communication reinforced learning, encouraged reflection, and supported continuing discussions. Results: Most participants demonstrated advanced readiness to engage in ACP. Over two-thirds (69%) reported having completed and signed formal ACP documents, while the remaining 31% indicated readiness to complete documentation within the next six months. Given the mean participant age of 82 years, these findings reflect a high level of engagement with ACP within this community and identify an opportunity for targeted support to facilitate timely completion among remaining participants. Significance and Impact: This project highlights the value of introducing ACP in low-stress outpatient settings to normalize conversations about future care. Through empowering individuals to articulate their values and preferences, the intervention supports patient-centered decision-making and promotes compassionate, high-quality care.