Retaining the good life: A qualitative study among couples living with heart disease and facing socio-demographic risk factors

Cardiac rehabilitation programmes provide knowledge, information and support, but patient-partner dyads living with heart disease (HD) and facing socio-demographic risk factors are less likely to benefit, maintaining health inequalities. This study aims to explore how such couples perceive and navigate HD within the context of everyday life to gain a comprehensive understanding of which position HD is given in daily life. Using an explorative design, qualitative data were generated through semi-structured interviews with 12 couples recruited from hospital. Findings show that HD is often viewed as resolved and secondary once the acute phase ends. Physical improvement post-treatment reduces anxiety, and HD takes a backseat to co-occurring diseases and social challenges. Couples prioritise returning to everyday routines and preserving what they see as the good life. This study highlights the need for tailored programmes that address couples' unique circumstances and resources, offering insights for reducing health inequalities in rehabilitation.