Older people's perspectives on use of complementary and alternative medicine and acupressure: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: This study explored older people's knowledge, experience and perception of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and acupressure, and their willingness to accept acupressure.

Method: This qualitative descriptive study, using semi-structured interviews, was conducted at two residential aged care facilities. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results: Fifteen older people participated. Participants had limited knowledge about CAM and acupressure. Many of them had positive views on CAM, and were willing to accept acupressure. There were five major themes: knowledge and understanding about CAM, experience of using CAM, general views on use of CAM, reasons for not using CAM, and willingness to accept acupressure.

Conclusion: The findings show the diverse views on CAM and acupressure from the perspectives of the older people in this study. There is a need for further research investigating the usefulness of CAM and acupressure in aged care settings.

Keywords: Acupressure; Complementary and alternative medicine; Older people; Residential aged care.