The peer advisor experience providing social support

Research shows a link between increased social support and decreased compli cations after myocardial infarction (MI). In a current randomized controlle d trial (RCT), a social support intervention administered by Nurse and peer advisors is being examined to determine its influence on the health outcom es of unpartnered, post-MI elders. This qualitative study (as part of the t he larger RCT) sought a better understanding regarding the experience of th e peer advisor. Data sources included peer advisor logs, a focus group, and telephone interviews with peer advisors. Findings revealed that helping, m utual sharing, committing, and benefiting are characteristics of peer exper iences. Primarily because of their personal expt experience of recovery fro m MI, peer advisors had a remarkable ability to relate to assigned past-MI elders, offering a unique form of social support complementary to current h ealth practices.