Examining older adult's perceptions of health care providers: Identifying important aspects of older adults' relationships with physicians and nurses

This article describes-older adults' conversations about their relationships with health care providers. Focus group participants (N = 23) were from three ethnic groups (Black, White, and Hispanic) and ages 53 to 92. All but three of the participants were women. Content analysis revealed an overarching theme of genuine caring and three sub-themes: interest in patients' well-being, respectful dialogue, and sharing of information. Older adults' perceptions of genuine caring by physicians and nurses did not differ by ethnicity. Older adults want to engage in a caring, respectful, and educational relationship with their health care providers, which is consistent with fundamental professional values.