Occupational performance and strategies for managing daily life among the elderly with heart failure

Abstract

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.

Key words::

• qualitative design
• occupational therapy
• occupational balance
• occupational adaptation
• ageing
• activities of daily living

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the participants in the study. This work was supported by funding from the National Research School in General Practice (VR-funded), Swedish Heart and Lung Association (local and national), the Foundation for Medical Research in Skellefteå, the Swedish Association of Occupational Therapists, Inga-Britt and Jan-Axel Bränholm Foundation, Detlof stiftelse, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation Umeå University, and Research Grants for Västerbotten County Council (FoU and ALF).

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.