Continuity means "preserving a consistent whole"--A grounded theory study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing
• Sociology

Background:

• Chronic heart failure (CHF) significantly impacts daily life, causing disruptions and affecting well-being.
• Understanding patient experiences is crucial for developing effective care strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how individuals with CHF experience life discontinuity.
• To identify strategies used by patients to preserve and strengthen continuity in their daily lives.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory methodology was employed.
• Data collected through 13 individual and 1 group interviews (5 participants).
• Participants aged 62 to 88 years.

Main Results:

• A model illustrating experiences of discontinuity, recapturing approaches, and reconciliation was developed.
• Discontinuity involves an alienated body, disrupted time, and threatened self.
• Recapturing approaches include repossessing the body, maintaining a façade, seizing the day, restoring time balance, and preserving self.

Conclusions:

• Patients reconcile with changes by minimizing discontinuity through recapturing approaches.
• Findings offer insights for interventions in continuity of care for CHF patients.
• Healthcare systems should support patient adaptation to changes for desired daily living.