A Qualitative Study to Investigate the Preference of Older Individuals with Obstructive Sleep Apnea on a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Machine in Thailand: An Outpatient Setting.

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is related to several cardiovascular diseases in older adults. The cornerstone of the treatment of OSA is a continuous positive airway pressure machine (CPAP). Factors associated with CPAP purchasing in older adults with OSA are limited, particularly by qualitative research. This study aimed to evaluate factors associated with CPAP purchasing in older adults with OSA by using qualitative study design.

METHODS

This was a qualitative study and enrolled older adults with an age of 60 years old or more who diagnosed as obstructive sleep apnea, underwent the CPAP titration trial for at least three nights, and decided to purchase the CPAP after the CPAP titration trial. An in-depth interview was performed to identify factors associated with CPAP purchasing until data were saturated.

RESULTS

There were 15 older adults participated in the study. Of those, eight patients (53.33%) were male, and the age range was between 62 and 72 years. There were four themes related to CPAP purchasing in older adults with OSA: Perspectives of OSA on health, family support, affordability, and benefits of CPAP. Older patients wanted to live peacefully, happily, and healthy. When diagnosed with OSA, they wanted to be treated and be healthier. Family members support the older adults with OSA to be treated with CPAP. Older adults with OSA worry about their family members as they want to live as long as possible to take care of their young family members. There are two main factors regarding a decision of CPAP purchasing in older adults with OSA: affordability and benefits of CPAP.

CONCLUSION

Perspectives of OSA on health, family support, affordability, and benefits of CPAP were factors associated with CPAP purchasing in older adults with OSA by the in-depth interview.