Abstract

JIMENEZ NAVASCUES, María Lourdes; ORKAIZAGUIRRE GOMARA, Aintzane  and  BIMBELA SERRANO, María Teresa. Lifestyle and perception of care in chronic patients: hypertension and diabetes. Index Enferm [online]. 2015, vol.24, n.4, pp.217-221. ISSN 1699-5988.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S1132-12962015000300006.

Objective: To describe the lifestyle of chronic hypertensive and diabetic patients, to determine the factors that influence self-care and to analyze their perception of professional care. Methods: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews, from a biographical perspective. Data was analyzed using the conceptual framework proposed by the "Aurora Mas" research group. Results: The respondents have assumed their diseases and self-care. They have adopted a healthy lifestyle and they value very positively the support of their family and social networks. They show trust and confidence toward health professionals. Conclusions: The interviews are useful to learn about the lifestyles of chronic patients as they allow analyzing the perception of patients on the factors that influence self-care. Healthcare professionals should monitor physiological indicators of chronic diseases and the emotional and social dimensions of patients, since they affect the perception of the quality of life.

Keywords : Life Style; Self Care; Comprehensive Health Care; Chronic Disease; Quality of Life.