Older patients’ experience of primary hypothyroidism: A qualitative study

Ingoe, Lorna, Hickey, Janis, Pearce, Simon, Rapley, Tim, Razvi, Salman, Wilkes, Scott and Hrisos, Susan (2018) Older patients’ experience of primary hypothyroidism: A qualitative study. Health Expectations, 21 (3). pp. 628-635. ISSN 1369-6513

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/hex.12656

Abstract

Background - Primary hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder, more so in an increasing UK ageing population. There is no qualitative research examining the older patient perspective of symptoms, treatment and self‐management of hypothyroidism.

Objective - In this study we explored the experience of hypothyroidism in older people and examined how this may influence their understanding and acceptance of diagnosis, treatment with Levothyroxine and the monitoring process.

Design - We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 18 participants aged between 80 and 93 years. Interview transcripts were analysed using a thematic approach.

Results - The themes involved older individuals’ knowledge about symptoms, confidence in diagnosis and understanding of clinical management regimen to understand hypothyroidism. Interpretation of the themes was informed by the Health Belief Model.

Conclusion - Our findings can help to inform the development of interventions by treating clinicians and support staff to engage older patients in the long‐term management of this chronic condition.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: experience, hypothyroidism, older adults
Subjects: B900 Others in Subjects allied to Medicine
Department: Faculties > Health and Life Sciences > Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing
Depositing User: Becky Skoyles
Date Deposited: 24 May 2018 12:14
Last Modified: 01 Aug 2021 09:35
URI: http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/34361

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