Social connection and living with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A qualitative analysis

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) face increased risk of social isolation and loneliness. However, social dimensions are frequently overlooked in respiratory care. We aimed to explore the role of social connection in living with COPD, including influences on health and function. We conducted a reflexive thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 19 people with COPD (median age 78 years [range 58-88]; 14 with severe obstruction). Three themes were identified: social connection supports COPD self-management, the ‘triple threat’ of COPD to social connection, and the inseparable nature of social health. Participants described how worsening symptoms, particularly breathlessness, contribute to disconnection through physical restrictions,
psychological reactions, and societal unawareness, with negative impacts on self-management and wider physical and psychological health. We conclude that social connections become increasingly valuable, yet increasingly difficult to maintain, as COPD progresses. Supporting individuals to maintain connections within a biopsychosocial approach may unlock wider health benefits.