Table 2 Most frequently coded themes and their subthemes on how the pandemic affected the daily lives as reported by clients (n = 9) during phone interviews of Safe Home Care COVID-19 qualitative study
Themes | Subthemes | Frequency coded |
|---|---|---|
Fear of risk of infection | • Going out only when necessary o Feeling worried and being more alert when going out o Washing clothes each time after going out o Food shopper does the groceries • Concerned about being a carrier and spreading the virus • Washing hands more often | *** |
Less physical connection with others | • Physical distancing guidelines • Communicating on the phone more than seeing each other in-person • Unable to interact with other residents like before pandemic • Family member can no longer assist with compression stocking removal | *** |
Little change prior to pandemic | • Did not go out much prior to pandemic • Calls and visits from family to check in/ help out • Neighbor visits and wears a mask • Client continues receiving treatments at hospital | *** |
Telehealth use | • Video telehealth technology not commonly used o Connection problems • The phone is the most used communication tool o Communication with HC-service case managers, nurses | *** |
Wearing masks | • Client wears a mask for medical appointments • Client cannot wear a mask due to the health condition • Difficulty hearing others speak • Difficulty reading lips when HC aides and other people wear masks | ** |