Gender and couple status differences in advance care planning: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Past studies have shown mixed results on how gender and living with a spouse or partner impact advance care planning (ACP). Few if any have tested for the interaction between these two variables.

Objective: We examined how gender and couple status interact to impact the use of ACP practices including written instructions, designating a durable power of attorney for healthcare (DPOAHC), and discussing one's decisions with others.