Exploring long-term recovery and community health management: a qualitative study of older adults and caregivers' experiences post COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland.

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 remains a significant threat to older adults, who continue to be the primary drivers of COVID-19-related hospitalizations. Older adults face long-term risks of death and adverse health outcomes following hospitalisation for COVID-19. This study aimed to explore older adults' and their caregivers long-term experience of recovery from COVID-19 following inpatient geriatric rehabilitation.

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive study design was adopted. The COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research' were used to guide conduct and reporting of the study. A purposive and convenience sampling method was used to recruit participants.

RESULTS

Eight older adults (mean age = 83, SD = 8) and 6 caregivers were recruited (5 family caregivers and 1 formal caregiver). Mean time since hospitalisation for COVID-19 was 2.93 years (SD = 0.31 years). Data were analysed using a reflexive approach to thematic analysis. Three themes were identified. The first, "Health and Function Changes: Unravelling the Impact of COVID-19 and Aging", describes the challenges of distinguishing the long-term effects of COVID-19 from age related changes. The second theme, "COVID-19: Left a Few Marks," highlights the enduring negative impacts of the virus on health and well-being. Finally, "Enablers of Recovery" describes how formal and informal caregivers, access to appropriate healthcare services, equipment and environmental adaptations, and primary care services support recovery and functional improvement.

CONCLUSION

Older adults report their recovery from COVID-19 infection but note significant long-term effects on their health and well-being resulting in an increased need for formal and informal supports in the community.