%0 Journal Article
%T Experiences of Social Isolation in Older Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 and Their Close Relatives: A Qualitative Study
%A Karin Bundgaard
%A Lone Winther Lietzen
%A Peter Errboe Jensen
%A Merete Gregersen
%J Health
%P 758-770
%@ 1949-5005
%D 2023
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/health.2023.157048
%X <strong>Background:</strong> Proximity between older patients and their close relatives is essential during hospitalisation. During the first wave of the pandemic, the Danish Patient Safety Authority restricted no hospital visitors. <strong>Aim:</strong> To explore how older patients with COVID-19 and their close relatives experienced physical separation during hospitalization. <strong>Method: </strong>A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was employed. <strong>Findings: </strong>Six interviews were conducted: three patients with a mean age of 81 years and three close relatives¡ªtwo daughters and one spouse. The patients felt boredom, loneliness, and a sense of imprisonment, yet they felt safe and satisfied. Isolation was known beforehand from the media. Close relatives emphasised that information, involvement, and collaboration with hospital staff were crucial. <strong>Conclusion: </strong>Although older patients with COVID-19 and their close relatives widely accept their situation during hospitalization, they experience negative consequences from social isolation.
%K Aged
%K COVID-19
%K Nursing Staff
%K Hospital
%K Personal Protective Equipment
%K Social Isolation
%K Visitors to Patients
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=126560