Symptom Experiences and Management of Long COVID Among Older Adults in the Community: A Phenomenological Study

Long COVID has emerged as a persistent health challenge, particularly among older adults. Its diverse symptoms often affect physical, psychological, and social well-being, making effective management strategies essential. This study aims to explore the symptoms experienced by older adults with Long COVID, examine their impact on daily life, and identify the strategies employed for symptom management within a community setting. A phenomenological design was applied. Data were collected between January and April 2024 through in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 14 older adults with Long COVID residing in a rural community in Thailand. Content analysis was used to interpret the data. Six categories of symptom experiences were identified: (1) neuropsychiatric (insomnia), (2) sensory (ageusia), (3) musculoskeletal (muscle pain), (4) upper respiratory (cough), (5) lower respiratory (dyspnea), and (6) general symptoms (fatigue). To manage these symptoms, older adults reported strategies including praying and taking medication for insomnia; using supplements for ageusia and fatigue; taking Thai herbs for muscle pain and cough; and using oxygen therapy, breathing exercises, lung exercises, and rest for dyspnea. Older adults with Long COVID experience multiple symptom categories and employ diverse management strategies that combine traditional and modern approaches. These findings emphasize the importance of personalized clinical care and the integration of cultural and alternative remedies in supporting older adults with Long COVID.