Cognition and adherence are self-management factors predicting the quality of life of adults living with a left ventricular assist device

Background There is no empirical study about the context and influence of self-management (SM) factors on quality of life (QOL) among adults with left ventricular assist device (LVADs). The purpose of this study was to close this knowledge gap by: (1) differentiating select SM factors (e.g., cognition) and overall QOL based on LVAD implant durations; (2) examining the relationships among SM factors and QOL variables; and (3) identifying which SM factors predict QOL. Methods An observational study was employed including 87 LVAD patients, ages 20 to 80 years, with mean implant durations of 18.5 ± 15.1 months. Patients completed 1 demographic questionnaire and 6 measures of SM factors (cognition—general and executive function, LVAD self-efficacy, care dependency and adherence) and QOL. Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistical procedures. Results There was no significant difference in SM factors and overall QOL by LVAD implant durations. SM factors, including cognitive function, LVAD self-efficacy, and adherence, correlated positively with QOL (r = 0.35 to 0.48, p < 0.05), but LVAD care dependency correlated negatively with QOL (r = −0.21, p < 0.05). The general and executive function of cognition and LVAD adherence were significant predictors of QOL. Conclusions The data inferred that higher level of cognitive function is associated with higher self-efficacy, adherence and greater QOL, whereas lower care dependency is associated with greater QOL. Higher cognitive function and adherence to the LVAD care regimen predicted better QOL outcome. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism by which SM factors influence QOL in adults with long-term LVADs.