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Published on: November 8, 2013
"It's a lonely battle": A qualitative study of older adult Canadians' experiences with chronic obstructive pulmonary
Leanne Skerry1, Emily Kervin1, Tracy A Freeze1
1Horizon Health Network, Research Services, Saint Joseph's Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick.
Background:
Medication adherence is critical for optimal management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is influenced by patient, treatment and societal factors. Currently, little is known about the patient perspectives of older adult Canadians with COPD regarding medication adherence. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of older Canadian adults with COPD regarding medication adherence and management.
Methods:
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 community-dwelling older adults with COPD, and iterative thematic analysis was performed.
Results:
Six themes emerged from these data: (1) continuity of care, (2) importance of pharmacy for information and care, (3) medication self-management, (4) "there needs to be more information," (5) drug costs a concern and (6) "it's a lonely battle."
Conclusion:
Findings suggested a need for improved continuity of care, disease-related information provision and means of addressing psychosocial needs. Holistic approaches to patient education and self-management, with consideration for varying health literacy, are needed.
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Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:

