Weathering the Double Storm-Resilience in Chinese Older Cancer Patients With Long COVID: A Qualitative Study.

AIM: To explore the lived experiences of Chinese older adult cancer patients in Hong Kong navigating the challenges of long COVID.

DESIGN

A descriptive phenomenological study.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 purposively sampled older Chinese cancer survivors in Hong Kong between January 2023 and January 2024. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's thematic analysis method.

RESULTS

Four key themes emerged: (1) the invisible scars of COVID-19: unrecognised and diverse symptoms; (2) the double-edged sword of protection: shielding from COVID-19 while battling cancer and long COVID; (3) forging strength in the crucible: adapting and thriving with cancer and long COVID and (4) nurturing resilience: the integral role of nursing in supporting cancer patients with long COVID during a pandemic.

CONCLUSION

Older Chinese cancer patients with long COVID experience a dual burden of unrecognised physical symptoms and profound psychological distress from isolation. Despite this, they demonstrate remarkable resilience, a process that can be actively supported through specialised nursing care.

ORIGINALITY/NOVELTY: This study offers original contributions to the limited literature on the intersection of cancer, long COVID, and ageing. It provides in-depth insights into the lived experiences of this vulnerable population, highlighting the diversity of long COVID symptoms, the psychological impact of pandemic-related precautions, and the crucial role of nursing in fostering resilience.

IMPACT: This study highlights the urgent need for nurses to recognise the unique challenges of this population. It provides a foundation for developing nurse-led, resilience-focused interventions that integrate tailored education, emotional support, and resource navigation into oncology care. These findings can inform practice and policy to better support the well-being of a vulnerable and growing patient demographic.

REPORTING METHOD: The study adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.