Changes in lifestyle following a myocardial infarction : a Maltese perspective.

Abstract

This study set out to explore changes in lifestyle following a myocardial infarction from a Maltese perspective. It aimed to discover what changes occur and how they effect the individuals' life. This was done using qualitative research methods in which an open in-depth interview was central to capture the individuals' experiences. A key aim of this indigenous research was to examine the changes within their own context of a Maltese lifestyle and thus naturalistic research methods were deemed most appropriate. The data revealed significant emergent themes and central issues which exhibited what changes occurred, how they effected the individual and what influential factors were responsible for bringing about change in lifestyle. The themes that emerged included risk factor modification, daily life activities, still active, the issues of stress, the issues of health and the religious aspect. These were influenced by a number of factors including the Maltese lifestyle, previous knowledge held by the participants, information provided whilst in hospital, family and friends, fear and anxiety and the absence of symptoms and lapse of time. Other factors affected return to work such as age, physical ability, psychosocial factors and job satisfaction. Hobbies were influenced by a feeling of control and more satisfaction whilst most activities were influenced by cautiousness and overprotective families. Stress was an important issue that affected the participants' life in most activities, leading to unnecessary anxiety and often, impatience. The individual's health beliefs and interpretation of health was evident as an influencing factor together with spiritual issues. In conclusion, this study has brought out the different facets that should be taken into consideration when treating this client group. Information alone does not warrant compliance to treatment programmes. Therefore, rehabilitation programmes should be designed with all these socio-cultural factors in mind whilst recognising the individuality of each person. It is necessary to provide programmes for all phases of rehabilitation for Maltese post-myocardial infarction patients whilst involving the family and providing support and feedback throughout all the phases. This will help to alleviate fear and anxiety for both patients and their families. A culturally sensitive continuum of services is needed to fill the gap in intervention for these patients. It is vital since patients need to take responsibility for their own health. The importance of involvement of occupational therapists, in such programmes, who have the necessary skills to use adult learning principles and empower patients rather than to force change comes out in this study.