Changing choices: disabled and chronically ill people's experiences of reconsidering choices. (June 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baxter, Kate
• Is Part Of: Chronic illness. Volume 9:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 116
• Page End: 132
• Publication Date: 2013-06
• Subjects: Choices -- revisiting choices -- disabled people -- experiences -- qualitative research; Chronic diseases -- Periodicals; 616.04405
• DOI: 10.1177/1742395312460410
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1742-3953

Abstract

Objectives: To increase understanding of disabled and chronically ill people's experiences of revisiting choices by considering events that prompted people to reconsider choices; what factors motivated them to act upon these events and what factors affected their experiences of revisiting choices. Methods: A sub-sample of 20 disabled and chronically ill people who took part in a qualitative, longitudinal study exploring choice-making in the context of changing circumstances. Each person was interviewed three times. Analysis focussed on choices that people had been prompted to revisit. Results: Most choices were about health or social care and were revisited within a year due to: changes in health or social circumstances; poorer than expected outcomes; and external interventions. People were motivated to make changes by a desire to maintain independence and control, but perceived short-term costs of decision-making could act as a deterrent. Experiences of revisiting choices were affected by help from other people and emotional strength. Discussion: Making and revisiting choices is complex; people need support to engage with the continual cycle of choice-making. People who instigate revisions of their own accord may be particularly vulnerable to lack of support.