“We Don't Take Care of Ourselves”: A Qualitative Study on Self-Management Challenges and Health Needs Among Older Family Care Partners of Persons With Heart Failure

Purpose: Older family care partners of persons with heart failure (HF-FCPs) face physical, psychosocial, and financial burden, yet their self-care difficulties and unmet needs remain poorly understood. We examined older HF-FCPs' self-management challenges, care-related needs, and health status. Method: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with 15 HF-FCPs between September 2022 and January 2023. Results: HF-FCPs (mean age = 65.9 years [ SD = 4.4 years]) were predominantly female ( n = 11) and spouses ( n = 13), providing care for 9.3 years and 35.4 hours per week. Arthritis was the most common chronic condition among HF-FCPs, followed by obesity and hearing or vision impairments. Four key themes emerged: Self-Management Challenges , Motivation for Self-Care , Need for Social Connection , and Need for Caregiver Resources in Supporting Patients With HF . Conclusion: Findings highlight the need to develop and implement caregiver-centered health programs tailored to the unique needs of older HF-FCPs.