Exploring long-term recovery and community health management: a qualitative study of older adults and caregivers’ experiences post COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland

Background: COVID-19 remains a significant threat to older adults, who continue to be the primary drivers of COVID-19-related hospitalizations. Older adults face long-term risks of death and adverse health outcomes following hospitalisation for COVID-19. This study aimed to explore older adults’ and their caregivers long-term experience of recovery from COVID-19 following inpatient geriatric rehabilitation. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design was adopted. The COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research’ were used to guide conduct and reporting of the study. A purposive and convenience sampling method was used to recruit participants. Results: Eight older adults (mean age = 83, SD = 8) and 6 caregivers were recruited (5 family caregivers and 1 formal caregiver). Mean time since hospitalisation for COVID-19 was 2.93 years (SD = 0.31 years). Data were analysed using a reflexive approach to thematic analysis. Three themes were identified. The first, “Health and Function Changes: Unravelling the Impact of COVID-19 and Aging”, describes the challenges of distinguishing the long-term effects of COVID-19 from age related changes. The second theme, “COVID-19: Left a Few Marks,” highlights the enduring negative impacts of the virus on health and well-being. Finally, “Enablers of Recovery” describes how formal and informal caregivers, access to appropriate healthcare services, equipment and environmental adaptations, and primary care services support recovery and functional improvement. Conclusion: Older adults report their recovery from COVID-19 infection but note significant long-term effects on their health and well-being resulting in an increased need for formal and informal supports in the community.