Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use among Chinese Elders: Crafting a Health Information Guide

This study aims to assess the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) among Chinese elders and develop a health information guide based on the findings. The study is grounded in the theory that CAM encompasses a broad domain of health systems, practices, and beliefs outside the dominant health system of a society. The respondents' profiles in terms of gender and highest educational attainment were described. The study also assessed the efficacy, frequency of application, and circumstances of application of CAM. The results showed that CAM is widely used among Chinese elders, with varying levels of efficacy and application patterns. The study identified several problems encountered by the respondents in using CAM, such as lack of information and guidance. Based on the findings, a health information guide for the use of CAM was developed. This study provides valuable insights for patients, medical health practitioners, hospital administrators, nursing education, and the community, facilitating the effective and safe use of CAM. Future research can further explore the improvement of nursing care and healthcare for patients using CAM.