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Timmermans L, Boeykens D, Sirimsi MM, Van de Velde D, De Vriendt P, Decat P, Foulon V, Van Hecke A, Vermandere M, Schoenmakers B. Self-management support (SMS) in primary care practice: a qualitative focus group study of care professionals' experiences. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:76. [PMID: 38429637 PMCID: PMC10908026 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02317-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To support self-management of chronically ill persons, innovative approaches of care practice are being developed. Unfortunately, many self-management supporting interventions struggle to achieve reliable and consistent improvements at various levels (patient, provider and healthcare system level). One possible strategy to facilitate translating theory into practice, is to consider the healthcare professionals' perspective prior to the development of new interventions. An exploration of their knowledge and opinion about barriers and facilitators is necessary before employing any self-management support (SMS) intervention. Therefore, our study aims to explore care professionals' perspectives about SMS within the Flemish primary care setting. METHODS This study used a qualitative study design to examine SMS in primary care setting. Five focus groups were conducted, grouped into three waves. Participants were healthcare professionals in Flanders representing different disciplines and settings. A maximum variation purposive sampling was used to recruit participants. For the data analysis, the framework of thematic networks by Attride-Stirling was applied. RESULTS A total of 34 healthcare professionals participated. Three global themes related to SMS were derived from the thematic analysis: (1) Characteristics, (2) Support strategies, (3) Barriers and facilitators. SMS was characterised as a collaboration-based and person-centred approach. A variety of supporting strategies were mentioned by the focus group participants. Most strategies consisted of informing and educating patients. Complementary to individual strategies, collaborative strategies were deemed necessary to support self-management. Regarding barriers and facilitators, different patient-related factors were identified. Additionally, competencies of healthcare providers and external factors seem to hinder the implementation of SMS in practice. CONCLUSIONS This focus group study highlights the importance of a collaborative, person-centred approach to SMS in the context of chronic diseases. Our findings point to the need for interventions that raise awareness and address barriers associated with SMS. Since generic SMS does not exist, the road to success is a growth process in which support must be adapted to the individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte Timmermans
- Academic Centre of General Practice, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 7, Box 7001, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Dagje Boeykens
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Dominique Van de Velde
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Patricia De Vriendt
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, Ghent, Belgium
- Frailty in Ageing (FRIA) Research Group, Department of Gerontology and Mental Health and Wellbeing (MENT) Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Decat
- General Practice and Primary Health Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Veerle Foulon
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Hecke
- University Centre for Nursing and Midwifery, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department Nursing Director, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mieke Vermandere
- Academic Centre of General Practice, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 7, Box 7001, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Birgitte Schoenmakers
- Academic Centre of General Practice, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 7, Box 7001, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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Richardson CL, Black D, Lindsey L, Nazar H. Community pharmacies as a place for informal carer support in mental health and wellbeing. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:1302-1306. [PMID: 37269442 PMCID: PMC10239217 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01606-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
There are 5.3 million informal carers in the United Kingdom who take on caring responsibilities for family and friends. Informal carers can be forgotten patients within health and care services, yet because of carer burden, they are at risk of deterioration in health and wellbeing. There are higher levels of anxiety, depression, burnout and low self-esteem amongst carers but, to our knowledge work to date has mainly focused on supporting carers to provide better care for their family member, and less on carers' health and wellbeing. There is increasing interest in social prescribing as a method of linking patients with community-based services to improve health and wellbeing. Initiatives have included social prescribing via community pharmacies which are already recognized to be accessible for support and signposting. The coming together of community pharmacy services and social prescribing could represent a framework to better support carers in their mental health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Lucy Richardson
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 7RU, UK.
| | - David Black
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 7RU, UK
| | - Laura Lindsey
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 7RU, UK
| | - Hamde Nazar
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, King George VI Building, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 7RU, UK
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Nichol L, Wallace SJ, Pitt R, Rodriguez AD, Hill AJ. Communication partner perspectives of aphasia self-management and the role of technology: an in-depth qualitative exploration. Disabil Rehabil 2022; 44:7199-7216. [PMID: 34747289 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1988153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE "Self-management" empowers individuals to take responsibility for their healthcare through skill-building, personal growth, and self-efficacy related to chronic health condition management. Self-management approaches may benefit people with aphasia (PwA); however, PwA are often excluded from stroke self-management research and there is no published research reporting on aphasia-specific self-management programs. Communication partners (CPs) are involved in the rehabilitation and day-to-day lives of PwA, thus giving them unique insights and knowledge of PwA needs. The present study aimed to investigate CP experiences and perspectives regarding aphasia self-management and to explore CP perceptions of the use of technology in aphasia self-management. METHODS In-depth, semi-structured interviews with 14 CPs living in Australia. Interview data was analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Analysis revealed six core themes: (1) aphasia self-management is embedded into everyday life, (2) CPs provide comprehensive self-management support, (3) speech-language pathologists (SLPs) provide tools and support to enable PwA to self-manage, (4) aphasia self-management can be enhanced by technological supports, (5) potential positive outcomes of aphasia self-management, and (6) factors influencing successful aphasia self-management. CONCLUSIONS Aphasia self-management programs should focus on individual needs, functional communication in daily life, and social interaction. PwA and CPs are central to these programs, assisted by SLPs. Technology should be explored to augment aphasia self-management.Implications for RehabilitationCommunication partners suggest that people with aphasia are already engaging in aspects of self-management and that more formal aphasia-specific self-management approaches may be beneficial.Dedicated aphasia self-management programs should be situated in daily life with a focus on functional communication, life participation, confidence, and independence.Communication partners, speech-language pathologists, and technology are key support sources for aphasia self-management.Further input should be sought from communication partners in the development of aphasia self-management programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leana Nichol
- Queensland Aphasia Research Centre, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sarah J Wallace
- Queensland Aphasia Research Centre, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Aphasia Recovery and Rehabilitation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rachelle Pitt
- Queensland Aphasia Research Centre, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Aphasia Recovery and Rehabilitation, Melbourne, Australia.,West Moreton Health, Ipswich, Australia
| | - Amy D Rodriguez
- Queensland Aphasia Research Centre, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, United States
| | - Annie J Hill
- Queensland Aphasia Research Centre, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS), Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia
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"They're My Go-To People": A Qualitative Study of Support Networks for People Recently Diagnosed With HIV in Queensland, Australia. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2022; 33:624-637. [PMID: 35878321 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Support networks promote care engagement and prevent social isolation for people living with HIV (PLWH). This study examined the personal support networks of recently diagnosed PLWH and explored how these networks change over time. We developed qualitative social network maps with 10 recently diagnosed PLWH in Queensland and identified unique and dynamic support networks. Network changes over time were influenced by changing support needs and experiences of stigma. Some support networks grew, whereas others remained small and close-knit or became sparse. The pivotal role of peers for information and emotional support was revealed. Socially isolated PLWH also described substantial reliance on long-term professional support. Others described reasons why health professionals were excluded from support networks, revealing the importance of nonjudgmental attitudes and HIV literacy among health professionals. Facilitating ongoing links with peers and professionals are crucial strategies to help PLWH foster effective and sustainable networks for comprehensive long-term support.
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Waling A, Lyons A, Alba B, Minichiello V, Barrett C, Hughes M, Fredriksen-Goldsen K, Edmonds S, Bath N. Experiences of informal caregiving among older lesbian and gay adults in Australia. Australas J Ageing 2022; 41:424-430. [PMID: 35560859 PMCID: PMC9544417 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study examined older lesbian and gay adults' experiences regarding informal caregiving, including challenges and positive aspects of caregiving. Methods Interviews were conducted with 16 lesbian women and gay men in Australia, aged 60+, who were engaged in informal caregiving. Analyses involved a qualitative thematic approach. Results Most participants were caring for a friend or partner and regarded caregiving as a form of love and did not seek external support despite noting several impacts. Some participants found that they too were beginning to require care. For some, formal care was being considered, but with a degree of reluctance. Conclusions Older lesbian and gay adult caregivers experience a range of challenges and support needs in relation to their experiences with the caregiving role. This research highlights a need for ensuring that caregiving policies and practices be responsive to the experiences and challenges faced by older lesbian and gay people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Waling
- School of Psychology and Public Health, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony Lyons
- School of Psychology and Public Health, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Beatrice Alba
- School of Psychology and Public Health, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Victor Minichiello
- School of Psychology and Public Health, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Justice, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Mark Hughes
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | - Nicky Bath
- LGBTIQ+ Health Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Quigley R, Foster M, Harvey D, Ehrlich C. Entering into a system of care: A qualitative study of carers of older community-dwelling Australians. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:319-329. [PMID: 33955616 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Informal carers provide the majority of care to older Australians and play an essential role in assisting older people with complex care needs to remain living in their own homes. As such, carers are increasingly faced with systemic responsibilities, including coordinating services across multifaceted health and aged care systems and negotiating treatment and supports. The aim of this study was to explore how systemic complexity and associated work is experienced by carers of older adults and what personal capacities carers draw on in managing the systemic work. A descriptive phenomenological approach guided the research. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 16 carers of community-dwelling older adults with complex care needs recruited through a local health service. Giorgi's phenomenological data analysis methods (1997) was utilised for the data analysis. Two main themes were derived from the analysis: Becoming part of the caring system and Mastering the caring system. The findings indicate that the majority of carers perceived the work of interacting with multiple systems and services as a burden and an onerous obligation. Furthermore, change in the health or social circumstances of the older adult amplified differences in the nature of the systemic work and concomitantly revealed differences in carers' capacities. This paper reveals that the caring system is in some sense disposed to create disparities, as carers' specific capacities were integral to mastering the systemic work. An understanding of informal care work that supports older people to live in the community can assist health care professionals and service providers to better identify carer requirements and assess carer capacity to manage the work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Quigley
- Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
- Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Michele Foster
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Desley Harvey
- Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
- College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Carolyn Ehrlich
- The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Lobo EH, Abdelrazek M, Grundy J, Kensing F, Livingston PM, Rasmussen LJ, Islam SMS, Frølich A. Caregiver Engagement in Stroke Care: Opportunities and Challenges in Australia and Denmark. Front Public Health 2021; 9:758808. [PMID: 34900907 PMCID: PMC8661098 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.758808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, there is a rise in incident cases of stroke, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, due to obesity-related and lifestyle risk factors, including health issues such as high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension. Since the early 20th century, stroke mortality has declined due to proper management of the risk factors and improved treatment practices. However, despite the decline in mortality, there is an increase in the levels of disability that requires long-term support. In countries such as Australia and Denmark, where most care is provided within the community; family members, generally spouses, assume the role of caregiver, with little to no preparation that affects the quality of care provided to the person living with stroke. While past research has highlighted aspects to improve caregiver preparedness of stroke and its impact on care; health planning, recovery, and public health policies rarely consider these factors, reducing engagement and increasing uncertainty. Hence, there is a need to focus on improving strategies during recovery to promote caregiver engagement. In this study, we, therefore, try to understand the needs of the caregiver in stroke that limit engagement, and processes employed in countries such as Australia and Denmark to provide care for the person with stroke. Based on our understanding of these factors, we highlight the potential opportunities and challenges to promote caregiving engagement in these countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elton H. Lobo
- School of Information Technology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohamed Abdelrazek
- School of Information Technology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - John Grundy
- Faculty of Information Technology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Finn Kensing
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Lene J. Rasmussen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Anne Frølich
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Innovation and Research Centre for Multimorbidity, Slagelse Hospital, Region Zealand, Denmark
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Matarese M, Pendoni R, Piredda M, De Marinis MG. Caregivers' experiences of contributing to patients' self-care in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A thematic synthesis of qualitative studies. J Adv Nurs 2021; 77:4017-4034. [PMID: 34245173 PMCID: PMC8518034 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM To identify, analyze and synthesize qualitative studies on caregivers' experiences of contributions to the self-care of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). BACKGROUND COPD patients perform daily self-care behaviours to manage the disease. With aging and disease progression, patients need to rely on the contributions of informal caregivers, usually family members, for disease management. Caregivers' normal or habitual contributions to patients' self-care have not yet been completely investigated. DESIGN Thematic synthesis of qualitative studies. DATA SOURCES CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, Emcare and OpenGrey databases were searched from inception to September 2020. The search was restricted to English-language papers. REVIEW METHODS Studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. The initial line-by-line codes were aggregated into descriptive themes from which analytical themes were derived. RESULTS Fifteen papers from nine countries, published 2009-2020, were included. Six analytical themes encompassing 22 descriptive themes were identified and grouped in two overarching themes describing caregivers' experiences of contributions to patients' self-care during the stable and exacerbation phases of COPD. In the stable phases, caregivers contribute through maintaining disease stability, promoting healthy behaviours, fostering normal life and helping perform daily activities. During exacerbations, caregivers contribute through assessing, monitoring and managing symptoms in collaboration with patients or autonomously. They contribute by performing actions, motivating patients, organizing care, sensing variations in symptoms, acquiring knowledge and educating patients, making decisions, communicating and collaborating with healthcare providers and patients and advocating for patients. CONCLUSION This thematic synthesis enlarges knowledge of caregivers' contributions to patients' self-care in COPD, detailing the ways by which caregivers provide care to patients. IMPACT Contributing daily to the self-care of a family member with COPD is a complex experience. Nurses need to acknowledge the importance of caregivers' contributions to patient disease management and develop effective educational interventions to support them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Matarese
- Research Unit of Nursing SciencesCampus Bio‐Medico University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Roberta Pendoni
- Department of Biomedicine and PreventionUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
| | - Michela Piredda
- Research Unit of Nursing SciencesCampus Bio‐Medico University of RomeRomeItaly
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Dennett EJ, Janjua S, Stovold E, Harrison SL, McDonnell MJ, Holland AE. Tailored or adapted interventions for adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and at least one other long-term condition: a mixed methods review. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 7:CD013384. [PMID: 34309831 PMCID: PMC8407330 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013384.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by shortness of breath, cough and recurrent exacerbations. People with COPD often live with one or more co-existing long-term health conditions (comorbidities). People with more severe COPD often have a higher number of comorbidities, putting them at greater risk of morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of any single intervention for COPD adapted or tailored to their comorbidity(s) compared to any other intervention for people with COPD and one or more common comorbidities (quantitative data, RCTs) in terms of the following outcomes: Quality of life, exacerbations, functional status, all-cause and respiratory-related hospital admissions, mortality, pain, and depression and anxiety. To assess the effectiveness of an adapted or tailored single COPD intervention (simple or complex) that is aimed at changing the management of people with COPD and one or more common comorbidities (quantitative data, RCTs) compared to usual care in terms of the following outcomes: Quality of life, exacerbations, functional status, all-cause and respiratory-related hospital admissions, mortality, pain, and depression and anxiety. To identify emerging themes that describe the views and experiences of patients, carers and healthcare professionals when receiving or providing care to manage multimorbidities (qualitative data). SEARCH METHODS We searched multiple databases including the Cochrane Airways Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL, to identify relevant randomised and qualitative studies. We also searched trial registries and conducted citation searches. The latest search was conducted in January 2021. SELECTION CRITERIA Eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) compared a) any single intervention for COPD adapted or tailored to their comorbidity(s) compared to any other intervention, or b) any adapted or tailored single COPD intervention (simple or complex) that is aimed at changing the management of people with COPD and one or more comorbidities, compared to usual care. We included qualitative studies or mixed-methods studies to identify themes. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methods for analysis of the RCTs. We used Cochrane's risk of bias tool for the RCTs and the CASP checklist for the qualitative studies. We planned to use the Mixed Methods Appraisal tool (MMAT) to assess the risk of bias in mixed-methods studies, but we found none. We used GRADE and CERQual to assess the quality of the quantitative and qualitative evidence respectively. The primary outcome measures for this review were quality of life and exacerbations. MAIN RESULTS Quantitative studies We included seven studies (1197 participants) in the quantitative analyses, with interventions including telemonitoring, pulmonary rehabilitation, treatment optimisation, water-based exercise training and case management. Interventions were either compared with usual care or with an active comparator (such as land-based exercise training). Duration of trials ranged from 4 to 52 weeks. Mean age of participants ranged from 64 to 72 years and COPD severity ranged from mild to very severe. Trials included either people with COPD and a specific comorbidity (including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, lung cancer, head or neck cancer, and musculoskeletal conditions), or with one or more comorbidities of any type. Overall, we judged the evidence presented to be of moderate to very low certainty (GRADE), mainly due to the methodological quality of included trials and imprecision of effect estimates. Intervention versus usual care Quality of life as measured by the St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) total score may improve with tailored pulmonary rehabilitation compared to usual care at 52 weeks (mean difference (MD) -10.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) -12.66 to -9.04; 1 study, 70 participants; low-certainty evidence). Tailored pulmonary rehabilitation is likely to improve COPD assessment test (CAT) scores compared with usual care at 52 weeks (MD -8.02, 95% CI -9.44 to -6.60; 1 study, 70 participants, moderate-certainty evidence) and with a multicomponent telehealth intervention at 52 weeks (MD -6.90, 95% CI -9.56 to -4.24; moderate-certainty evidence). Evidence is uncertain about effects of pharmacotherapy optimisation or telemonitoring interventions on CAT improvement compared with usual care. There may be little to no difference in the number of people experiencing exacerbations, or mean exacerbations with case management compared with usual care (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.57; 1 study, 470 participants; very low-certainty evidence). For secondary outcomes, six-minute walk distance (6MWD) may improve with pulmonary rehabilitation, water-based exercise or multicomponent interventions at 38 to 52 weeks (low-certainty evidence). A multicomponent intervention may result in fewer people being admitted to hospital at 17 weeks, although there may be little to no difference in a telemonitoring intervention. There may be little to no difference between intervention and usual care for mortality. Intervention versus active comparator We included one study comparing water-based and land-based exercise (30 participants). We found no evidence for quality of life or exacerbations. There may be little to no difference between water- and land-based exercise for 6MWD (MD 5 metres, 95% CI -22 to 32; 38 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Qualitative studies One nested qualitative study (21 participants) explored perceptions and experiences of people with COPD and long-term conditions, and of researchers and health professionals who were involved in an RCT of telemonitoring equipment. Several themes were identified, including health status, beliefs and concerns, reliability of equipment, self-efficacy, perceived ease of use, factors affecting usefulness and perceived usefulness, attitudes and intention, self-management and changes in healthcare use. We judged the qualitative evidence presented as of very low certainty overall. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Owing to a paucity of eligible trials, as well as diversity in the intervention type, comorbidities and the outcome measures reported, we were unable to provide a robust synthesis of data. Pulmonary rehabilitation or multicomponent interventions may improve quality of life and functional status (6MWD), but the evidence is too limited to draw a robust conclusion. The key take-home message from this review is the lack of data from RCTs on treatments for people living with COPD and comorbidities. Given the variation in number and type of comorbidity(s) an individual may have, and severity of COPD, larger studies reporting individual patient data are required to determine these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma J Dennett
- Cochrane Airways, Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Sadia Janjua
- Cochrane Airways, Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Stovold
- Cochrane Airways, Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Melissa J McDonnell
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
| | - Anne E Holland
- Physiotherapy, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Melbourne, Australia
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Abstract
UNLABELLED ABSTRACTBackground:Population aging places greater demands on the supply of informal carers. The aims of this study were to examine (1) the types of unmet support needs of carers of older Australians and (2) the association of unmet needs with mental health. METHODS Utilizing new data from the 2015 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers, we calculated the prevalence of carers experiencing specific and multiple unmet needs for support, using single and multiple item measures. Logistic regression models were fitted to examine the association between unmet needs and psychological distress (using the Kessler psychological distress scale), once demographic and health factors were controlled for. RESULTS In 2015, 35% of carers of older Australians cited at least one unmet need for support. Among this group, almost two-thirds cited multiple unmet support needs (64.7%). The most prevalent types of unmet needs included financial (18%), physical (13%), and emotional support (12%), as well as additional respite care and support to improve carer health (12%). After controlling for demographic and health characteristics of the carer, having any unmet need for support increased the odds of psychological distress by twofold (OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.65, 2.94). With each successive unmet need for support, the odds of psychological distress increased 1.37 times (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.22, 1.54). Those who had received assistance with care, but required further support were 1.95 times more likely (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.17, 3.24) to be in distress and those who had not received care assistance were about 2.4 times more likely (OR = 2.38 95% OR = 1.56, 3.62) to be in distress relative to those with no unmet need. CONCLUSIONS Addressing unmet support needs of carers is important, not only for the planning of services for carers in an aging population, but also because of the association between unmet support needs and carers mental health.
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McMillan SS, King MA, Stapleton H, Sav A, Kelly F, Wheeler AJ. A pharmacy carer support service: obtaining new insight into carers in the community. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2018; 27:34-44. [PMID: 29732644 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Unpaid carers have many and varied responsibilities in society, which can include medication management for the person they support. However, the potential for Australian community pharmacies to better assist carers is relatively unexplored. This mixed-methods study investigated the acceptability of a local carer support service by trained community pharmacy staff, including issues regarding the implementation and impact of this service. METHODS Staff from 11 community pharmacies in South East Queensland, Australia, were trained to deliver a six-step carer support service between September 2016 and March 2017. Pharmacies were supported by a carer and pharmacist mentor pair and asked to recruit up to six carers each. Evaluations of staff training were descriptively analysed. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with pharmacy staff, and interview transcripts were analysed thematically. KEY FINDINGS Staff training evaluations were positive; participants acquired new information about carers and rated the service highly in terms of its importance within the pharmacy setting. Feedback was obtained on how to improve the training, such as further opportunities for role-play. Seven staff members were interviewed, and data analysis revealed two main themes: (1) implementation of the carer support service and (2) perceived impact on pharmacy staff. Positive attitudes towards recognising and supporting carers, and training and mentoring were identified with community pharmacies viewed as a suitable place for delivering this new service. New insights into the impact of caring were widely reported, which staff had not appreciated from previous carer interactions. Structural issues, including space and time pressures, and a lack of awareness about the types of support currently available to carers were emphasised. CONCLUSION Pharmacy staff are well positioned to support carers. Engaging carers in conversation to better understand their needs is a small step with potential for big gains, including a more empathetic understanding of their individual circumstances and overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara S McMillan
- Quality Use of Medicines Network, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Qld, Australia
| | - Michelle A King
- Quality Use of Medicines Network, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Qld, Australia
| | - Helen Stapleton
- School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, Logan Campus, Meadowbrook, Qld, Australia.,Mater Health Services, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Adem Sav
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Fiona Kelly
- Quality Use of Medicines Network, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, Qld, Australia
| | - Amanda J Wheeler
- Quality Use of Medicines Network, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Logan Campus, Meadowbrook, Qld, Australia.,School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Burns E, Prigerson HG, Quinn SJ, Abernethy AP, Currow DC. Moving on: Factors associated with caregivers' bereavement adjustment using a random population-based face-to-face survey. Palliat Med 2018. [PMID: 28627971 DOI: 10.1177/0269216317717370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing care at end of life has consequences for caregivers' bereavement experience. 'Difficulty moving on with life' is an informative and unbiased symptom of prolonged grief disorder. Predictors of bereaved caregivers' ability to 'move on' have not been examined across the population. AIM To identify the characteristics of bereaved hands-on caregivers who were, and were not, able to 'move on' 13-60 months after the 'expected' death of someone close. DESIGN The South Australian Health Omnibus is an annual, random, cross-sectional community survey. From 2000 to 2007, respondents were asked about providing care for someone terminally ill and their subsequent ability to 'move on'. Multivariable logistic regression models explored the characteristics moving on and not moving on. SETTING Respondents were aged ⩾15 years and lived in households within South Australia. They had provided care to someone who had died of terminal illness in the preceding 5 years. RESULTS A total of 922 people provided hands-on care. In all, 80% of caregivers (745) had been able to 'move on'. Closeness of relationship to the deceased, increasing caregiver age, caregiver report of needs met, increasing time since loss, sex and English-speaking background were significantly associated with 'moving on'. A closer relationship to the deceased, socioeconomic disadvantage and being male were significantly associated with not 'moving on'. CONCLUSION These results support the relevance of 'moving on' as an indicator of caregivers' bereavement adjustment. Following the outcomes of bereaved caregivers longitudinally is essential if effective interventions are to be developed to minimise the risk of prolonged grief disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Burns
- 1 Southern Adelaide Palliative Services, Daw Park, SA, Australia
| | - Holly G Prigerson
- 2 Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,3 Center for Psycho-Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steve J Quinn
- 4 Flinders Centre for Clinical Change, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Amy P Abernethy
- 5 ImPACT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia.,6 Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David C Currow
- 1 Southern Adelaide Palliative Services, Daw Park, SA, Australia.,5 ImPACT, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia.,7 Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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James CL, Rusli N, Broady TR. Carers and manual handling: Survey results. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF THERAPY AND REHABILITATION 2017. [DOI: 10.12968/ijtr.2017.24.4.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: There is limited literature specific to manual handling practices among informal carers, with most literature relating to nurses and paid carers. This study aimed to identify the current experiences and practices of informal carers in relation to manual handling and their perceived manual handling needs for this role. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study design utilising an online questionnaire was used to survey informal carers who were members of Carers NSW—an organisation for carers in New South Wales, Australia. Seventy-five returned surveys were eligible for inclusion. The data was analysed with descriptive statistics using JMP software (version 10.0.0). Findings: Respondents were predominantly female (74.7%), over 45 years of age (81.1%) and were on a pension (35.8%). Respondents carried out a variety of caring tasks; however, they used limited equipment and received active/interactive training (workshop and training from health professionals) more than passive training (written materials in brochures, books, websites and posters). Conclusions: The study provides information on the manual handling experiences and practices of informal carers. The information can be used by health professionals to develop specific education programmes or appropriate manual handling literature to assist informal carers with this role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole L James
- Associate professor, School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - Norsyamimi Rusli
- Assistant director (occupational therapy), Special Education Division, Ministry of Education, Malaysia
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14
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McMillan SS, Wheeler AJ, Sav A, King MA, Kelly F. Caring for carers in community pharmacy. Res Social Adm Pharm 2017; 13:254-256. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2016.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Jowsey T, Strazdins L, Yen L. Worry and time: the unseen costs of informal care. Chronic Illn 2016; 12:249-260. [PMID: 27165607 DOI: 10.1177/1742395316647788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to examine the experiences of informal carers in terms of how their time spent caring is related to worry. Is worry about a care recipient a care practice, and if so, to what extent it can be understood temporally? METHODS Classical phenomenology underpinned this study. Three qualitative studies of people living with chronic illness in Australia were conducted between 2009 and 2013. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Phenomenological thematic analysis of the data was undertaken. RESULTS Twenty-five informal carers participated. The findings pivot around three interconnected themes: time, worry and cost. Worry was identified as a temporally bound unseen cost to carers that informs carer identity irrespective of culture, ethnicity, or social status. DISCUSSION Worry is a practice that most carers report engaging in and it is one that comes with a temporal cost-it keeps people busy looking after the needs of others during the day and it keeps some people awake when they would rather be sleeping. Worry takes time and effort, it informs people's construction of their own sense of self, motivates acts of care, and informs carers' imaginings of what their future and that of their loved one(s) may entail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanisha Jowsey
- Centre for Medical and Health Sciences Education, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Health Services Research Department, The Australian National University, Australia
| | - Lyndall Strazdins
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Australia
| | - Laurann Yen
- Health Services Research Department, The Australian National University, Australia
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16
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Burns EJ, Quinn SJ, Abernethy AP, Currow DC. Caregiver Expectations: Predictors of a Worse Than Expected Caregiving Experience at the End of Life. J Pain Symptom Manage 2015; 50:453-61. [PMID: 26004400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2015.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The gap between informal caregivers' expectations of caregiving at the end of life and their actual caregiving experience has important affective and behavioral consequences. OBJECTIVES This study analyzes for the first time the characteristics of those caregivers who report a worse or much worse than expected caregiving experience, providing a potential for future targeted intervention into the caregiving experience. METHODS The South Australian Health Omnibus is an annual, random, face-to-face, and cross-sectional survey. From 2000 to 2007, respondents were asked a range of questions about end-of-life care, including in several years a question about how the caregiving experience compared with caregivers' expectation(s). Family members and friends who reported a worse or much worse than expected caregiving experience were the focus of this analysis. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were created to better define this group. RESULTS Of the 1628 active caregivers for people at the end of life, almost half (48.3%) reported a worse or much worse than expected caregiving experience. A worse or much worse than expected caregiving experience was significantly associated with gender and with level of care provided. Women who provided daily hands-on care were significantly more likely to have a worse than expected experience compared with women who provided intermittent care (odds ratio [OR] 0.65; 95% CI 0.48-0.88; P = 0.005) or rare care (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.27-0.56; P < 0.001). Of all those providing rare care, women were significantly less likely than men to report a worse than expected caregiving experience (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.41-0.93; P = 0.020). CONCLUSION Caregiver expectations represent a novel and important focus for investigation into the caregiver experience. Explicitly eliciting expectations may in future lead to ways of better supporting caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma J Burns
- Central Adelaide Palliative Care Services, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen J Quinn
- School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Amy P Abernethy
- Discipline of Palliative and Supportive Services, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - David C Currow
- Discipline of Palliative and Supportive Services, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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Nakken N, Spruit MA, Wouters EF, Schols JM, Janssen DJ. Family caregiving during 1-year follow-up in individuals with advanced chronic organ failure. Scand J Caring Sci 2015; 29:734-44. [DOI: 10.1111/scs.12204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nienke Nakken
- Program Development Centre; CIRO+, Centre of Expertise for Chronic Organ Failure; Horn The Netherlands
| | - Martijn A. Spruit
- Program Development Centre; CIRO+, Centre of Expertise for Chronic Organ Failure; Horn The Netherlands
| | - Emiel F.M. Wouters
- Program Development Centre; CIRO+, Centre of Expertise for Chronic Organ Failure; Horn The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine; Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+); Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Jos M.G.A. Schols
- Department of Family Medicine; Faculty of Health Medicine and Life sciences/CAPHRI; Maastricht University; Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Daisy J.A. Janssen
- Program Development Centre; CIRO+, Centre of Expertise for Chronic Organ Failure; Horn The Netherlands
- Centre of Expertise for Palliative Care; Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+); Maastricht The Netherlands
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18
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Sadler E, Wolfe CDA, McKevitt C. Lay and health care professional understandings of self-management: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. SAGE Open Med 2014; 2:2050312114544493. [PMID: 26770733 PMCID: PMC4607208 DOI: 10.1177/2050312114544493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Self-management is widely promoted but evidence of effectiveness is limited. Policy encourages health care professionals to support people with long-term conditions to learn self-management skills, yet little is known about the extent to which both parties share a common understanding of self-management. Thus, we compared health care professional and lay understandings of self-management of long-term conditions. Methods: Systematic review and narrative synthesis of qualitative studies identified from relevant electronic databases, hand-searching of references lists, citation tracking and recommendations by experts. Results: In total, 55 studies were included and quality was assessed using a brief quality assessment tool. Three conceptual themes, each with two subthemes were generated: traditional and shifting models of the professional–patient relationship (self-management as a tool to promote compliance; different expectations of responsibility); quality of relationship between health care professional and lay person (self-management as a collaborative partnership; self-management as tailored support) and putting self-management into everyday practice (the lived experience of self-management; self-management as a social practice). Conclusion: Self-management was conceptualised by health care professionals as incorporating both a biomedical model of compliance and individual responsibility. Lay people understood self-management in wider terms, reflecting biomedical, psychological and social domains and different expectations of responsibility. In different ways, both deviated from the dominant model of self-management underpinned by the concept of self-efficacy. Different understandings help to explain how self-management is practised and may help to account for limited evidence of effectiveness of self-management interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euan Sadler
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health Sciences, Division of Health and Social Care Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Charles D A Wolfe
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health Sciences, Division of Health and Social Care Research, King's College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher McKevitt
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health Sciences, Division of Health and Social Care Research, King's College London, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, UK
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Vellone E, D'Agostino F, Buck HG, Fida R, Spatola CF, Petruzzo A, Alvaro R, Riegel B. The key role of caregiver confidence in the caregiver's contribution to self-care in adults with heart failure. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs 2014; 14:372-81. [PMID: 25125351 DOI: 10.1177/1474515114547649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caregivers play an important role in contributing to heart failure (HF) patients' self-care but no prior studies have examined the caregivers' contributions to HF patients' self-care and no prior studies have examined potential determinants of the caregivers' contribution to HF patients' self-care. AIMS The purpose of this study was to describe the caregivers' contribution to HF patients' self-care and identify its determinants. METHODS The study design involved a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data. Caregivers' contributions were measured with the Caregiver's Contribution to Self-care of HF Index (CC-SCHFI) which measures the caregiver's contribution to self-care maintenance and management and caregiver confidence in contributing to HF patient's self-care. Potential determinants were measured using a socio-demographic questionnaire completed by caregivers and patients, and patient clinical data was obtained from the medical record. RESULTS Data from 515 caregiver/patient dyads were analyzed. Most (55.5%) patients were male (mean age 75.6 years) and most (52.4%) caregivers were female (mean age, 56.6 years). The caregivers' contribution to patients' self-care maintenance was low in weight monitoring and physical activity but higher in checking ankles, advising on low-salt foods and taking medicines. The caregivers' contribution to patients' self-care management was low in symptom recognition. When symptoms were recognized, caregivers advised patients to reduce fluids and salt and call the provider but rarely advised to take an extra diuretic. Caregiver confidence in the ability to contribute to patient self-care explained a significant amount of variance in the caregiver's contribution. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that caregivers in this sample did not contribute meaningfully to HF self-care. Providers should educate both HF patients and caregivers. Interventions that improve caregiver confidence have the potential to successfully increase the caregivers' contribution to patients' self-care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ercole Vellone
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio D'Agostino
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Harleah G Buck
- The Pennsylvania State University College of Nursing, University Park, USA
| | - Roberta Fida
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo F Spatola
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Petruzzo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosaria Alvaro
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Riegel
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Vassilev I, Rogers A, Kennedy A, Koetsenruijter J. The influence of social networks on self-management support: a metasynthesis. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:719. [PMID: 25023948 PMCID: PMC4223639 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is increasing recognition that chronic illness management (CIM) is not just an individual but a collective process where social networks can potentially make a considerable contribution to improving health outcomes for people with chronic illness. However, the mechanisms (processes, activities) taking place within social networks are insufficiently understood. The aim of this review was to focus on identifying the mechanisms linking social networks with CIM. Here we consider network mechanisms as located within a broader social context that shapes practices, behaviours, and the multiplicity of functions and roles that network members fulfil. Methods A systematic search of qualitative studies was undertaken on Medline, Embase, and Web for papers published between 1st January 2002 and 1st December 2013. Eligible for inclusion were studies dealing with diabetes, and with conditions or health behaviours relevant for diabetes management; and studies exploring the relationship between social networks, self-management, and deprivation. 25 papers met the inclusion criteria. A qualitative metasynthesis was undertaken and the review followed a line of argument synthesis. Results The main themes identified were: 1) sharing knowledge and experiences in a personal community; 2) accessing and mediation of resources; 3) self-management support requires awareness of and ability to deal with network relationships. These translated into line of argument synthesis in which three network mechanisms were identified. These were network navigation (identifying and connecting with relevant existing resources in a network), negotiation within networks (re-shaping relationships, roles, expectations, means of engagement and communication between network members), and collective efficacy (developing a shared perception and capacity to successfully perform behaviour through shared effort, beliefs, influence, perseverance, and objectives). These network mechanisms bring to the fore the close interdependence between social and psychological processes in CIM, and the intertwining of practical and moral dilemmas in identifying, offering, accepting, and rejecting support. Conclusions CIM policy and interventions could be extended towards: raising awareness about the structure and organisation of personal communities; building individual and network capacity for navigating and negotiating relationships and CIM environments; maximising the possibilities for social engagement as a way of increasing the effectiveness of individual and network efforts for CIM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivaylo Vassilev
- NIHR CLAHRC Wessex, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The family caregivers of patients with heart failure (HF) report burden and poor quality of life, but little is known about changes in their perceptions over time. OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate changes in caregiver burden (perceived time spent and difficulty with caregiving tasks), perceived control, depressive symptoms, anxiety, perceived life changes, and physical and emotional health-related quality of life; (2) to determine differences in perceptions between caregivers of patients with low HF symptoms (New York Heart Association class I and II) and caregivers of patients with high HF symptoms (New York Heart Association class III and IV); and (3) to the estimate time spent performing caregiving tasks. METHODS Sixty-three HF patients and 63 family caregivers were enrolled; 53 caregivers completed the longitudinal study. Data were collected from medical records and interviews conducted by advanced practice nurses at baseline and 4 and 8 months later. RESULTS Caregivers who completed the study had significant improvements in perceived time spent on and difficulty of caregiving tasks from baseline to 4 and 8 months, and depressive symptoms decreased from baseline to 8 months. Perceived life changes resulting from caregiving became more positive from baseline to 4 and 8 months. Perceived control, anxiety, and health-related quality of life did not change. Compared with caregivers of patients with low symptoms, caregivers of patients with high symptoms perceived that they spent more time on tasks and that tasks were more difficult, had higher anxiety, and had poorer physical health-related quality of life. Estimated time in hours spent providing care was high. CONCLUSIONS In this sample, perceptions of the caregiving experience improved over 8 months. Health-related quality of life was moderately poor over the 8 months. Caregivers of patients with more severe HF symptoms may be particularly in need of interventions to reduce time and difficulty of caregiving tasks and improve physical health-related quality of life.
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Jowsey T, McRae I, Gillespie J, Banfield M, Yen L. Time to care? Health of informal older carers and time spent on health related activities: an Australian survey. BMC Public Health 2013; 13:374. [PMID: 23607727 PMCID: PMC3641944 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the time spent on specific health related activities by older adult informal carers who assist people with chronic illness. Research has not yet addressed the association between carer health status and their care demands. Such information could inform policy and health system efforts to manage chronic illness. METHODS We conducted an Australia wide survey using recall questionnaires to record time use. The study asked how much time is spent on "most days" for the most common activities like taking medication, self-treatment and testing, and how much time in the last month on less common activities like attending a physician or shopping associated with health needs. The survey was mailed to 5,000 members of National Seniors Australia; 2,500 registrants on the National Diabetes Services Scheme; and 3,100 members of the Australian Lung Foundation. A total of 2519 people responded, including 313 people who identified as informal carers. Statistical analysis was undertaken using Stata 11. Standard errors and confidence intervals were derived using bootstrapping techniques within Stata 11. RESULTS Most carers (96.2%) had chronic illness themselves, and those with greater numbers of chronic illnesses were those who faced the greatest overall time demands. The top decile of carers devoted between 8.5 and 10 hours a day to personal and caring health related activities. Informal carers with chronic illness spent more time managing their own health than people with chronic illness who were not informal carers. These carers spent more time on caring for others than on caring for their own health. High levels of caring responsibility were associated with poorer reported carer health. CONCLUSIONS Policy and health care services will need to adapt to recognise and reduce the time burden on carers who themselves have chronic illness. More carefully targeted investment in the social infrastructure of formal care would free up carers for other activities (including their own care) and holds the potential to improve the quality of life as well as the health outcomes of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanisha Jowsey
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Ian McRae
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
| | - James Gillespie
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle Banfield
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Laurann Yen
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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Guilcher SJT, Casciaro T, Lemieux-Charles L, Craven C, McColl MA, Jaglal SB. Social networks and secondary health conditions: the critical secondary team for individuals with spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2012; 35:330-42. [PMID: 23031170 PMCID: PMC3459562 DOI: 10.1179/2045772312y.0000000035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the structure of informal networks for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) living in the community, to understand the quality of relationship of informal networks, and to understand the role of informal networks in the prevention and management of secondary health conditions (SHCs). DESIGN Mixed-method descriptive study. SETTING Ontario, Canada Participants: Community-dwelling adults with an SCI living in Ontario Interventions/methods: The Arizona Social Support Interview Survey was used to measure social networks. Participants were asked the following open-ended questions: (1) What have been your experiences with your health care in the community? (2) What have been your experiences with care related to prevention and/or management of SHCs?, (3)What has been the role of your informal social networks (friends/family) related to SHCs? RESULTS Fourteen key informant interviews were conducted (6 men, 8 women). The overall median for available informal networks was 11.0 persons (range 3-19). The informal network engaged in the following roles: (1) advice/validating concerns; (2) knowledge brokers; (3) advocacy; (4) preventing SHCs; (5) assisting with finances; and (6) managing SHCs. Participants described their informal networks as a "secondary team"; a critical and essential force in dealing with SHCs. CONCLUSIONS While networks are smaller for persons with SCI compared with the general population, these ties seems to be strong, which is essential when the roles involve a level of trust, certainty, tacit knowledge, and flexibility. These informal networks serve as essential key players in filling the gaps that exist within the formal health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara J. T. Guilcher
- Institute of Health, Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Correspondence to: Sara J. T. Guilcher, Institute of Health, Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5G1V7, Canada.
| | - Tiziana Casciaro
- Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Louise Lemieux-Charles
- Institute of Health, Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catharine Craven
- Institute of Health, Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary Ann McColl
- Centre for Health Services and Policy Research, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; and Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and School of Rehabilitaion Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan B. Jaglal
- Institute of Health, Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; and Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Aspin C, Brown N, Jowsey T, Yen L, Leeder S. Strategic approaches to enhanced health service delivery for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic illness: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2012; 12:143. [PMID: 22682035 PMCID: PMC3405462 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-12-143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2011] [Accepted: 06/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic illness confront multiple challenges that contribute to their poor health outcomes, and to the health disparities that exist in Australian society. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to care and support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic illness. METHODS Face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with diabetes, chronic heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n-16) and family carers (n = 3). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and the transcripts were analysed using content analysis. Recurrent themes were identified and these were used to inform the key findings of the study. RESULTS Participants reported both negative and positive influences that affected their health and well-being. Among the negative influences, they identified poor access to culturally appropriate health services, dislocation from cultural support systems, exposure to racism, poor communication with health care professionals and economic hardship. As a counter to these, participants pointed to cultural and traditional knowledge as well as insights from their own experiences. Participants said that while they often felt overwhelmed and confused by the burden of chronic illness, they drew strength from being part of an Aboriginal community, having regular and ongoing access to primary health care, and being well-connected to a supportive family network. Within this context, elders played an important role in increasing people's awareness of the impact of chronic illness on people and communities. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that non-Indigenous health services struggled to meet the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic illness. To address their complex needs, health services could gain considerably by recognising that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients have a wealth of cultural knowledge at their disposal. Strategies to ensure that this knowledge is integrated into care and support programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic illness should achieve major improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive Aspin
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ngiare Brown
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tanisha Jowsey
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Laurann Yen
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Stephen Leeder
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Ward NJ, Jowsey T, Haora PJ, Aspin C, Yen LE. With good intentions: complexity in unsolicited informal support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2011; 11:686. [PMID: 21888670 PMCID: PMC3176222 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-11-686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 09/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding people's social lived experiences of chronic illness is fundamental to improving health service delivery and health outcomes, particularly in relation to self-management activity. In explorations of social lived experiences this paper uncovers the ways in which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with chronic illness experience informal unsolicited support from peers and family members. METHODS Nineteen Aboriginal and Torres Islander participants were interviewed in the Serious and Continuing Illness Policy and Practice Study (SCIPPS). Participants were people with Type 2 diabetes (N = 17), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (N = 3) and/or chronic heart failure (N = 11) and family carers (N = 3). Participants were asked to describe their experience of having or caring for someone with chronic illness. Content and thematic analysis of in-depth semi-structured interviews was undertaken, assisted by QSR Nvivo8 software. RESULTS Participants reported receiving several forms of unsolicited support, including encouragement, practical suggestions for managing, nagging, growling, and surveillance. Additionally, participants had engaged in 'yarning', creating a 'yarn' space, the function of which was distinguished as another important form of unsolicited support. The implications of recognising these various support forms are discussed in relation to responses to unsolicited support as well as the needs of family carers in providing effective informal support. CONCLUSIONS Certain locations of responsibility are anxiety producing. Family carers must be supported in appropriate education so that they can provide both solicited and unsolicited support in effective ways. Such educational support would have the added benefit of helping to reduce carer anxieties about caring roles and responsibilities. Mainstream health services would benefit from fostering environments that encourage informal interactions that facilitate learning and support in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel J Ward
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Ian Potter house, Cnr Marcus Clarke and Gordon streets, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
| | - Tanisha Jowsey
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Ian Potter house, Cnr Marcus Clarke and Gordon streets, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Garran Road, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
| | - Penny J Haora
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Ian Potter house, Cnr Marcus Clarke and Gordon streets, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
| | - Clive Aspin
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Garran Road, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
- Poche Centre for Health Research, University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School, Edward Ford Building A27, 2006 NSW, Australia
| | - Laurann E Yen
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute, Australian National University, Ian Potter house, Cnr Marcus Clarke and Gordon streets, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
- Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Garran Road, Acton 0200 Canberra, Australia
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Jowsey T, Yen L, Wells R, Leeder S. National Health and Hospital Reform Commission final report and patient-centred suggestions for reform. Aust J Prim Health 2011; 17:162-8. [PMID: 21645472 DOI: 10.1071/py10033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2010] [Accepted: 12/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The final report of the National Health and Hospital Reform Commission (NHHRC) called for a strengthened consumer voice and empowerment. This has salience for the development of health policy concerning chronic illnesses. This paper compares the recommendations for chronic illness care made in the NHHRC final report with suggestions made by people with chronic illness and family carers of people with chronic illness in a recent Australian study. Sixty-six participants were interviewed in a qualitative research project of the Serious and Continuing Illness Policy and Practice Study (SCIPPS). Participants were people with type II diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or chronic heart failure. Family carers were also interviewed. Content analysis was undertaken and participants' recommendations for improving care were compared with those proposed in the NHHRC final report. Many suggestions from the participants of the SCIPPS qualitative research project appeared in the NHHRC final report, including the need to improve care coordination, health literacy and the experience of Indigenous Australians. The research project also identified important issues of family carers, immigrants and people with multiple illnesses, which were not addressed in the NHHRC final report. More specific attention is needed in health reform to improve the experience of family carers, Indigenous peoples, immigrants to Australia and people with multiple illnesses. To align more closely with their needs, health reform must be explicitly informed by the voices of people with chronic illness and their family carers. The NHHRC recommendations must be supplemented with proposals that address the needs of these people for support and the problems associated with poor care coordination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanisha Jowsey
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute and Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, 62 Eggleston Road, Australian National University, Acton, ACT 0200, Australia.
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Jowsey T, Gillespie J, Aspin C. Effective communication is crucial to self-management: the experiences of immigrants to Australia living with diabetes. Chronic Illn 2011; 7:6-19. [PMID: 21078683 DOI: 10.1177/1742395310387835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Ageing immigrant populations now pose problems for the management of chronic illness in Australia. This article asks questions about the experiences of immigrants in Australia with type II diabetes mellitus (DM). What impact, if any, have health policies had on the lives of immigrants? How do their experiences of living with DM compare with those of people with DM who were born in Australia? METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 participants who had DM (n = 25) or cared for someone with DM (n = 7). Fifteen participants had migrated to Australia and English was not their first language. Participants were asked to describe their experience of managing diabetes. RESULTS Immigrants to Australia confront linguistic and cultural barriers that create an extra layer of problems not experienced by Australian-born people. Older people who were born overseas face obstacles to effective engagement with the health system that weaken their ability to take an active part in the management of their conditions. CONCLUSIONS Chronic disease policy is failing immigrants to Australia. Health professionals and services must recognize the central role that cultural diversity plays in self-management and the impact that this can have on health outcomes for immigrants with chronic illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanisha Jowsey
- Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute and Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Australian National University, Ian Potter House, Australian National University, ACTON 0200 ACT, Australia.
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