Michael Rovithis, Sofia Koukouli, Alexios Dimitropoulos, Argyroula Kalaitzaki, Nikolaos Rikos, Georgios Vasilopoulos*,Aikaterini Papachristou, George Tsolas, Alexandra Tamiolaki, Eleni Tsapnidou, Anastasia Dimitrantzou, Dimitrios Katsiris, Elli Katsiri, Areti Stavropoulou
Background: Living with a chronic disease involves a variety of daily life limitations that severely affect people in their daily life. Identifying and promoting self-management strategies may improve health outcomes and increase individuals’ autonomy. The aim of the present study was to explore the views and perceptions of older people who experience a chronic condition, concerning daily life constraints and self-management strategies.
Method: A qualitative research design based on inductive content analysis approach was applied. A purposive sampling technique was used for recruiting the study participants. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews which conducted in 21 individuals living with chronic illnesses such as diabetes mellitus type 2, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart failure.
Findings: Two main-categories were occurred from content analysis, namely “Limitations of daily life” and “Disease Management”. Five subcategories were formed and assigned respectively to each main category. Physical restrictions and negative feelings were referred to as daily burdens, while scheduling and self-care, supporting environment and technology were related to disease management.
Conclusion: Improving care through empowerment interventions for individuals with chronic conditions is important for sustaining a good health status and promote quality of life. Information, training and provision of digital literacy may increase individuals' self-efficacy in managing their chronic illness.
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