Quality of life and physical function of COVID-19 survivors in Tshwane region, Gauteng Province
1
Public health, Sefako Makgatho health sciences university, Tshwane, South Africa
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT:
Background and
OBJECTIVES:
The long-term sequelae of COVID-19 have raised significant concerns regarding survivors’ quality of life and physical functioning. Persistent symptoms and prolonged recovery periods have adversely affected many individuals’ post-infection. This study aimed to explore the quality of life and physical function of COVID-19 survivors, with a focus on understanding the impact of the virus beyond the acute phase.
METHODS:
A descriptive qualitative research design was employed, utilising in-depth interviews to gather rich, detailed data on the experiences of COVID-19 survivors. Nineteen participants were interviewed to capture a comprehensive perspective of their physical health and quality of life post-infection.
RESULTS:
The findings revealed that participants experienced a decline in physical health attributed to extended recovery periods characterised by limited physical activity. Participants reported that this deterioration substantially affected their overall quality of life, underscoring the enduring impact of COVID-19.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study provides compelling evidence highlighting the urgent need for structured rehabilitation programmes tailored for COVID-19 survivors. It emphasises the importance of integrating specialised rehabilitation services within public health frameworks to support survivors’ recovery and address their unique challenges. Furthermore, the findings advocate for a shift in health policy paradigms to better recognise and manage the long-term consequences of infectious diseases.
Background and
OBJECTIVES:
The long-term sequelae of COVID-19 have raised significant concerns regarding survivors’ quality of life and physical functioning. Persistent symptoms and prolonged recovery periods have adversely affected many individuals’ post-infection. This study aimed to explore the quality of life and physical function of COVID-19 survivors, with a focus on understanding the impact of the virus beyond the acute phase.
METHODS:
A descriptive qualitative research design was employed, utilising in-depth interviews to gather rich, detailed data on the experiences of COVID-19 survivors. Nineteen participants were interviewed to capture a comprehensive perspective of their physical health and quality of life post-infection.
RESULTS:
The findings revealed that participants experienced a decline in physical health attributed to extended recovery periods characterised by limited physical activity. Participants reported that this deterioration substantially affected their overall quality of life, underscoring the enduring impact of COVID-19.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study provides compelling evidence highlighting the urgent need for structured rehabilitation programmes tailored for COVID-19 survivors. It emphasises the importance of integrating specialised rehabilitation services within public health frameworks to support survivors’ recovery and address their unique challenges. Furthermore, the findings advocate for a shift in health policy paradigms to better recognise and manage the long-term consequences of infectious diseases.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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