Accommodating to a troubled life – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients' experiences and perceptions of self-image during the course of rehabilitation. Issue 17 (13th August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Simonÿ, Charlotte; Andersen, Ingrid Charlotte; Bodtger, Uffe; Birkelund, Regner
• Is Part Of: Disability and rehabilitation. Volume 42:Issue 17(2020)
• Page Start: 2510
• Page End: 2518
• Publication Date: 2020-08-13
• Subjects: Pulmonary rehabilitation -- peer-fellowship -- humour -- participant observations -- interviews -- health behaviour; People with disabilities -- Periodicals; Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; 617.03
• DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1563641
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-8288

Abstract

Abstract: Background: To tailor future rehabilitation programmes for patients with chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, there is a need for more in-depth knowledge about what is essential to these patients and how they perceive their self-image while participating in rehabilitation. Therefore, this study aims to explore patients' experiences and perception of self-image during pulmonary rehabilitation. Methods: Twenty-one patients were followed by participant observations during standard rehabilitation complicity supplemented with final individual interviews. Phenomenological-hermeneutic analysis and interpretation were applied. Results: Through a rewarding peer fellowship, patients became engaged in rehabilitation and improved their capacity to embrace and manage their illness. Through a humorous interplay, encouragement to live with the life-threating disease developed. While understanding themselves in a wider perspective, patients enhanced enablement to shape life according to personal satisfaction. Although participating in the group-based programme was mostly invigorating, it was, however, sometimes perceived as a stressful overload. More individualized support from healthcare professionals was warrented. Conclusions: Group-based pulmonary rehabilitation can support chronic pulmonary obstructive disease patients towards significant change in self-image and health behaviour, leading to improved illness management. Enlarged opportunities to benefit from peer-fellowship and enhanced focus on what is essential to the participants might expand the rehabilitation yields.