• It is not unusual to see multiple family members visiting the elderly when institutionalized, scheduled for appointments or tests, to provide support to the individual, to consult with each other and reach consensus regarding what is best for the elderly, and to assist with decision making as necessary.
  
  
• For example, in situations in which there is a strong family system, Hispanics may opt for not having a health care proxy. This may be considered irrelevant in the setting of an involved family unit or may be considered potentially harmful as it may isolate one family member as the primary decision maker

Copyright 2000