Independent Living Oldest-Old and Their Primary Health Provider: A Mixed Method Examination of the Influence of Patient Personality Characteristics

Authors

Lee Stadtlander, Walden UniversityFollow
Martha Giles, Walden UniversityFollow
Amy Sickel, Walden UniversityFollow
Emma Brooks, Walden UniversityFollow
Cherri L. Brown, Walden UniversityFollow
Melissa Cormell, Walden UniversityFollow
Lara Ewing, Walden UniversityFollow
Delores Hart, Walden UniversityFollow
Dawn Koons, Walden UniversityFollow
Christie Olson, Walden UniversityFollow
Pamela Parker, Walden UniversityFollow
Veronica Semenova, Walden UniversityFollow
Shawna Stoneking, Walden UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Downloads before May 2022

197

Abstract

This convergent mixed methods study examined 35 healthy, independent living individuals' (over 85 years) perceptions of their relationship with their primary health provider (PHP) and health practices. The relationship between PHP relationship perceptions and locus of control (LOC), resilience, and self-efficacy was explored through surveys and interviews. The majority indicated they visited their PHP just for preventative care; the number of PHP visits per year was significantly lower than reported for individuals over 85 by the CDC, possible reasons for this finding are provided. A positive relationship between LOC, resiliency, and self-efficacy for the oldest-old was found. Few participants indicated their PHP had discussed normal changes with aging. This study has deepened understanding of the complexity inherent to the healthy oldest-olds' relationship with their PHP. The findings suggest this relationship relates to the PHP's personal characteristics, the elderly patients' personality, and the influence of the accompanying patient escort.