Abstract EP55: Qualitative Evaluation Of Older Adult Participants Of A Community Outreach Telehealth Program For Covid Education And Health Promotion (Coach)

Background: Chronic diseases are prevalent in Canada’s aging population (≥65 years). Positive health behaviours (e.g., physical activity, healthy diet) are critical for the management of chronic diseases (e.g., stroke, heart disease). However, novel coronavirus (COVID-19) prevention strategies of quarantining, social isolation, and physical distancing may compromise one's ability to manage health and engage in daily activities, possibly increasing risk of adverse health events. The Community Outreach teleheAlth program for Covid education and Health promotion (COACH) program has demonstrated an increase in health promoting behaviours, but little is known about participants’ experiences in participating in the program. The program entailed six telehealth sessions over two months that focused on health coaching, behaviour change, and COVID education. The objectives of this study were to describe: (1) chronic disease prevention and management strategies of older adults (≥65 years of age) during COVID-19; and (2) participants’ experience in COACH sessions delivered by medical students at the University of British Columbia. Methods: Twenty-four COACH participants participated in semi-structured interviews that were conducted through Zoom videoconferencing. Interview questions focused on how participants managed their own health before and during COVID-19. Qualitative description was the guiding methodological framework. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Findings: Participants’ mean age was 73.4 years (58% female) with 75% reporting two or more chronic conditions (e.g., stroke, heart disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes, heart attack). Three themes described participants’ prevention and management strategies, including: i) having a purpose for optimizing health; ii) using internal self-control strategies; and iii) leveraging external support strategies. COACH further supported participants during COVID-19, as represented through coach interactions as well as knowledge and skill development. Conclusion: Findings suggest that older adults engage in internal self-control strategies and external support means to manage current chronic conditions and promote health and well-being. Health professional program students have a potential role in health promotion and in assuming the role of coach in telehealth promotion programs for older adults.