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"Missing pieces": exploring cardiac risk perceptions in older women
Leanne L Lefler1, Jean C McSweeney, Kimberly K Garner
1College of Nursing, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, USA. L.Lefler@uams.edu
Research in Gerontological Nursing
|January 9, 2013
Summary
Older women often have cardiovascular disease risk factors but underestimate their coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. Enhanced education on CHD prevention is crucial for this demographic.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant health concern for older adults.
- A large majority of older women possess risk factors for CVD, yet awareness of personal risk is often low.
- Underestimation of risk can impede engagement in preventive behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the perceived risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) among older women.
- To identify factors influencing older women's perceptions of their CHD risk.
- To address the gap between actual risk factors and perceived vulnerability in older women.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, qualitative study design was employed.
- Data collection included in-depth individual interviews and quantitative risk assessments.
- Participants included 24 older African American and Caucasian women.
Main Results:
- Participants averaged 4.46 cardiac risk factors.
- Perceived CHD risk was unrealistically low, averaging 1.95 cm on a 0-to-8 cm visual analogue scale.
- Qualitative themes revealed a lack of accurate information and numerous misconceptions regarding CHD and its prevention.
Conclusions:
- Older women significantly underestimate their personal risk for coronary heart disease.
- Misconceptions and insufficient knowledge about CHD are prevalent.
- Targeted, consistent information and prevention guidance are essential to improve cardiovascular health outcomes in older women.
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