Chancellor Day
Pronouns: He/Him
Research Mentor(s): Mary Byrnes
Co-Presenter:
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy (CHOP) / Medicine
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: Session 3 – 1:40pm – 2:30 pm
Room: League Ballroom
Authors: Chancellor Day, Ann Luciano, Gloria Kim, Heather Dillaway, Nicholas Osborne, Matthew Corriere, Mary Byrnes
Presenter: 61
Abstract
Objective: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a chronic condition that primarily impacts older adults negatively impacts quality of life (QOL). Existing QOL instruments, however, do not provide insight into links between scores and how patients perceive effects of symptoms on daily activities. This study seeks to center the ways older adults with PAD conceptualize and express relationships between symptoms and QOL with PAD. Methods: This qualitative interpretive description study recruited adults from aPAD clinic at an academic institution. Participants were given disposable one-time use cameras and asked to photograph what quality of life meant to them. Interviews then evaluated the photographs, PAD knowledge, and meanings of QOL. Results: 48 participants engaged in photography and interview, average age was 70.1, Vascuqol6= 13.5 (SD = 4.6), and Geriatric Depression Scale = 3.4 (SD=3.2). Although Vascuqol6 scores (potential range from 6-24; higher=better QOL) were poor-moderately poor, participants overwhelmingly described positive aspects of QOL by focusing on what mattered in their lives. Most participants had symptomatic PAD and described the ways that related disability intruded on their livelihoods. Participants also reported ways they mediated this intrusion on their QOL through deeper connection to key aspects of their identities including relationships, work, ADLs, and employment (Image). Participants redefined their QOL in later life by engaging with others and activities and served as a point to redefine what QOL means to them. Key aspects of identity were a source of pride and the ability to complete tasks and engage in relationships was viewed as success. Conclusions: Mismatch between Vascuqol6 scores and qualitative photo and interview outcomes was identified. These findings suggest a potential measurement gap among older adults with PAD and underscores the need for more comprehensive QOL assessment approaches in this population.
Biomedical Sciences, Interdisciplinary
