Abstract
Aims and Objectives
This study explores the lived experiences of patients with chronic illnesses to understand how the meanings attributed to chronic illness, physical activity, and well-being intertwine. This understanding is crucial for care practices aiming to support and enhance well-being.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative interview study grounded in hermeneutic-phenomenology to capture participants' lifeworld experiences in narrative form.
Twenty-two individuals with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, or ischemic heart disease in Denmark were interviewed. Thematic analysis, inspired by Van Manen’s phenomenology of practice, was employed and findings discussed with theory of well-being by Todres and Galvin.
Results
Our analysis revealed a narrative of dual experiences: significant loss and transformative existential growth. The theme " Losing oneself determined by bodily impact" captured the profound impact of participants’ illnesses, including loss of embodiment, familiar life, and a promised future. Conversely, the theme "Physical activity as a pathway to existential growth" highlighted the empowering role of physical activity in finding relief, claiming control, and fostering reconnections with oneself and others.
Conclusion
This investigation highlights the value of physical activity beyond traditional health outcomes for those with chronic illnesses. Physical activity emerges as a vital component for existential growth and improved well-being. The study advocates for incorporating meaningful physical activities into care strategies to enrich the quality of life for individuals with chronic and life-threatening diseases.
Ethical Issues and Approval
Ethical considerations followed the ICN's ethical code of conduct, including addressing the sensitivity of researching vulnerable patients. All participants gave informed consent verbally and in writing. The study is registered with the Danish Data Protection Agency (REG-115-2021).
This study explores the lived experiences of patients with chronic illnesses to understand how the meanings attributed to chronic illness, physical activity, and well-being intertwine. This understanding is crucial for care practices aiming to support and enhance well-being.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative interview study grounded in hermeneutic-phenomenology to capture participants' lifeworld experiences in narrative form.
Twenty-two individuals with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, or ischemic heart disease in Denmark were interviewed. Thematic analysis, inspired by Van Manen’s phenomenology of practice, was employed and findings discussed with theory of well-being by Todres and Galvin.
Results
Our analysis revealed a narrative of dual experiences: significant loss and transformative existential growth. The theme " Losing oneself determined by bodily impact" captured the profound impact of participants’ illnesses, including loss of embodiment, familiar life, and a promised future. Conversely, the theme "Physical activity as a pathway to existential growth" highlighted the empowering role of physical activity in finding relief, claiming control, and fostering reconnections with oneself and others.
Conclusion
This investigation highlights the value of physical activity beyond traditional health outcomes for those with chronic illnesses. Physical activity emerges as a vital component for existential growth and improved well-being. The study advocates for incorporating meaningful physical activities into care strategies to enrich the quality of life for individuals with chronic and life-threatening diseases.
Ethical Issues and Approval
Ethical considerations followed the ICN's ethical code of conduct, including addressing the sensitivity of researching vulnerable patients. All participants gave informed consent verbally and in writing. The study is registered with the Danish Data Protection Agency (REG-115-2021).
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 2025 |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
| Event | 42nd International Human Science Research Conference: Grasping lived experiences - What, Why, and How - Universitu College Absalon, Roskilde, Denmark Duration: 11 Aug 2025 → 15 Aug 2025 |
Conference
| Conference | 42nd International Human Science Research Conference |
|---|---|
| Location | Universitu College Absalon |
| Country/Territory | Denmark |
| City | Roskilde |
| Period | 11/08/25 → 15/08/25 |
Keywords
- disease, health science and nursing
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