Work-related participation restrictions of Long COVID rehabilitants over time – Findings of a qualitative study

Background People who are affected by long COVID (LC) and have limitations in their ability to work can apply for a multi-professional rehabilitation programme. This qualitative study analysed the development of occupational participation, health limitations at work and factors supporting occupational participation in LC rehabilitants. Methods Guided telephone interviews were conducted with LC rehabilitants aged 18–65 years, who were undergoing pneumological rehabilitation, at three time points (shortly after the end of rehabilitation, and six and twelve months after rehabilitation). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Results Between 04/2021 and 07/2022, a total of 30 interviews were conducted with 11 rehabilitants (N = 7 women; average age: 50 years). Three health-related stress dimensions were identified: cognitive (e. g., word-finding difficulties, concentration problems), psychosocial (e. g., anxiety, worry), and physical (e. g., physical exhaustion, shortness of breath) limitations. The reintegration prepared by social services, the general conditions at the workplace (e. g., flexible working hours, empathy in the workplace) and personality traits, such as acceptance of personal limitations, were described as conducive to occupational participation. Respondents used compensatory techniques (e. g., mnemonics) and pacing to cope with the demands of work despite existing limitations. Conclusion The results of the study show that “returning to work” is not the same as “regaining the ability to work”. In both rehabilitation and aftercare, the restoration of physical, psychosocial, and cognitive work ability should play an essential role in counteracting the manifestation of participation restrictions.