2026 Volume 7 Issue 3 Pages 227-233
Compression therapy is fundamental to the treatment of venous leg ulcers（VLUs）, yet sustained treatment requires support that reflects the patient’s values and daily life. We report a woman in her 80s with VLUs persisting for approximately 10 years who initially refused compression therapy. Support focused on her values and autonomy, and avoiding hospitalization while continuing to live at home for the remainder of her life was established as a shared long-term goal. Compression was initiated with an elastic bandage that she could remove when discomfort became intolerable. Loosening the bandage was not criticized; instead, her continued engagement was acknowledged. As she observed wound reduction, she expressed a desire for healing, began asking how to improve her wounds, and, after instruction in appropriate bandaging, was able to apply the bandage herself without loosening it. Six posterior right-leg ulcers had closed at four months, and all ulcers were closed at one year. Although the intervention was not planned using the ARCS model, retrospective reflection organized the support process as one in which the patient found personal meaning in treatment, made autonomous choices, experienced outcomes, and progressed toward active participation in treatment.
