A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of Elderly Individuals with Chronic Wounds.

Abstract Purpose: To explore the lived experience of people with a chronic non-healing wound, and to explore what it means to live with a chronic wound. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study design was adopted to explore the living experience of person with chronic wound. A sample of 15 individuals of both genders was selected using a purposive sampling technique. To collect data, in-depth interviews were conducted, and all the interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using the seven-step process described by colaizzi (1978). Findings: The findings were organized into six themes clusters, and twelves themes. The six themes clusters were (a) limiting mobility; (b) receiving care; (c) explaining causes of wounds; (d) contending with chronic illnesses; (e) adapting and mal-adapting; and (f) economic burden of the wound. Conclusion: Chronic wound had a profound impact on participants? lives, impairing their activities of daily living, their mobility, their income and their personal relationships. Clinical Implications: This study adds to the body of knowledge in which it may assist caregivers and families to help persons coping with experience of chronic wounds.