Abstract
Introduction: The heart failure (HF) population is aging. As patients age, certain aspects of HF care become more and less challenging. The aim of this qualitative study is to understand which aspects of HF care are the most challenging for older adults and identify potential solutions and coping strategies. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 41 patients ≥75 years old with HF. The oldest was 93 years old and the youngest was 75 with an average age of 82. Interviews were conducted in both the inpatient (n=23) and outpatient/clinic (n=18) settings. Patients were asked a series of 3 questions focused on care challenges, effective strategies and coping mechanisms. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Recordings were listened to while reviewing the transcripts, then analyzed and coded for thematic analysis. Results: Older patients with HF identified: “salt/fluid restrictions,” “exercise limitations,” “medication compliance” and “transportation for visits” as key challenges of HF management. Effective strategies identified included: “family support,” “pill boxes and logbooks to help me remember” and “the socialization of cardiac rehab.” Successful coping strategies included: “family,” “religion” and “motivation to maintain independence.” Discussion: Older patients with HF face many of the same challenges as younger patients but also face additional hardships with transportation, cognitive limitations and social isolation ( Figure 1 ). These challenges are worse for older adults without family support. A desire to remain independent is a significant motivating factor for older adults with HF. Understanding these challenges and motivations can inform care plans better tailored to the care of older adults with HF.
Published Version
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