AIM: The aim of this study was to describe experiences of limitations in occupational performance and strategies for managing daily activities among the elderly with chronic heart failure (CHF). METHODS: Ten participants from primary healthcare with a confirmed diagnosis of CHF were interviewed. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The first theme, "Redefining an active life, aware of one's impaired body", was based on four sub-themes: realizing one's limited activity ability; striving to preserve an active life; focusing on meaningful activities; and changing vs. not changing habits and roles. The second theme, "Planning activities and balancing the degree of effort", was based on three sub-themes: limiting, organizing, and rationalizing activities; adjusting activities to today's ability; and using technology and adapting the environment. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly people with CHF are struggling with an ongoing process of occupational adaptation due to periodical physical decline and fluctuating day-to-day ability. This highlights a need for information on strategies from a holistic perspective and client-centred occupational therapy interventions.
AIM: The aim of this study was to describe experiences of limitations in occupational performance and strategies for managing daily activities among the elderly with chronic heart failure (CHF). METHODS: Ten participants from primary healthcare with a confirmed diagnosis of CHF were interviewed. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The first theme, "Redefining an active life, aware of one's impaired body", was based on four sub-themes: realizing one's limited activity ability; striving to preserve an active life; focusing on meaningful activities; and changing vs. not changing habits and roles. The second theme, "Planning activities and balancing the degree of effort", was based on three sub-themes: limiting, organizing, and rationalizing activities; adjusting activities to today's ability; and using technology and adapting the environment. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly people with CHF are struggling with an ongoing process of occupational adaptation due to periodical physical decline and fluctuating day-to-day ability. This highlights a need for information on strategies from a holistic perspective and client-centred occupational therapy interventions.
Authors: Simon Stewart; Barbara Riegel; Cynthia Boyd; Yasmin Ahamed; David R Thompson; Louise M Burrell; Melinda J Carrington; Andrew Coats; Bradi B Granger; Julie Hides; William S Weintraub; Debra K Moser; Victoria Vaughan Dickson; Cressida J McDermott; Ashley K Keates; Michael W Rich Journal: Int J Cardiol Date: 2016-03-10 Impact factor: 4.164