2014 Volume 18 Issue 1 Pages 42-50
The purpose of this study was to examine the influences of family support on the self-care behaviors of older patients that are on dietary restrictions due to hemodialysis treatment. Differences in perceptions between older patients and their family members were the focus of the study. Data were gathered from 16 dialysis clinics across the country. Pairs consisting of outpatients and their family members （N ＝ 283） were surveyed. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The causal model indicated that “family support perceived by older patients” had a direct influence on their self-care behaviors. “Family support perceived by family members” had no direct influence on older patients’ self-care behaviors. However, it had indirect influence on self-care behaviors through their perceptions. It is suggested that in order to promote self-care behaviors of older patients, the medical professionals must intervene to increase awareness of older patients regarding the significant contribution of family support for their self-care behaviors.
