PP-8 ‘I need to be remembered!’: a concept analysis of legacy in EoL care context

<h3>Introduction</h3> Understanding the importance of legacy in end-of-life (EoL) scenarios enables palliative care professionals to improve person-centered outcomes for individuals with life-threatening illnesses and their families. <h3>Aims</h3> The purpose of this concept analysis was to explore the legacy concept in end-of-life care. <h3>Methods</h3> Using the Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis method, we explore definitions, defining characteristics, antecedents, consequences and empirical referents. Following a comprehensive examination of titles and abstracts, a total of 30 publications were evaluated. These publications were obtained from three databases (CINAHL, Medline via PubMed, and Scopus) spanning the years 2002 to 2023. <h3>Results</h3> The findings identified several attributes of legacy: (a) leaving behind something of value that transcends mortality; (b) determining how individuals wish to be remembered; (c) constructing and bequeathing across generations; (d) integrating advance care planning through EoL discussions and collaborative decision-making; and (e) formulating strategies for dignity-conserving care. The outcomes pertain to enhancements in spiritual and subjective well-being; addressing unavoidable EoL existential concerns; mitigate suffering; cultivating self-awareness, hope and gratitude; attaining and preserving dignity; generate positive memories; encouraging mutually beneficial and transformative relationships; and facilitating the adaptation of bereaved individuals. <h3>Conclusion</h3> This concept analysis emphasizes how legacy acts as a remembrance factor throughout time, assisting caregivers in supporting EoL patients and their families in managing suffering and attaining improved adaptation to situational demands. <h3>Impact</h3> Additional effort is necessary to actualize the core attributes of legacy that underpin the development of legacy-focused interventions toward the EoL.