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Experiences of People with Cardiovascular Disease during COVID-19 in Sweden: A Qualitative Study

Author

Listed:
  • Catharina Sjödahl Hammarlund

    (Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
    The PRO-CARE Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kristianstad University, SE-29188 Kristianstad, Sweden)

  • Anna Norlander

    (Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
    Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Medicine, Memory Disorders and Geriatrics, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185 Lund, Sweden)

  • Christina Brogårdh

    (Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, SE-22100 Lund, Sweden
    Department of Neurology, Rehabilitation Medicine, Memory Disorders and Geriatrics, Skåne University Hospital, SE-22185 Lund, Sweden)

Abstract

Although people with cardiovascular conditions were subjected to more rigorous restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is limited knowledge of how the restrictions affected their lives and well-being. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe how people with cardiovascular conditions experienced their life situation and physical and mental health during the second wave of the pandemic in Sweden. Fifteen participants (median age 69 years; nine women) were individually interviewed, and data were analyzed with systematic text condensation. The findings revealed that some of the participants were fearful of contracting COVID-19 as their medical condition made them vulnerable. Additionally, the restrictions changed their daily routines and their ability to take part in social activities, as well as their access to specialized outpatient care (medical check-ups and physiotherapy). Although emotional and psychological distress were present, several participants found strategies that reduced their worries, such as exercising and meeting friends outdoors. However, some had adopted a more sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diets. These findings indicate that healthcare professionals should provide individualized support to persons with cardiovascular diseases in order to find well-functioning emotion- and problem-focused strategies aimed at improving physical and mental health during crises such as pandemics.

Suggested Citation

  • Catharina Sjödahl Hammarlund & Anna Norlander & Christina Brogårdh, 2023. "Experiences of People with Cardiovascular Disease during COVID-19 in Sweden: A Qualitative Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(8), pages 1-11, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:8:p:5588-:d:1128017
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    References listed on IDEAS

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