Exploring the Influences of Food Supplements on the Public's Healthcare Decision-Making

Statement of the Problem (Qualitative, Phenomenological)

In this phenomenological qualitative research study focused on "Exploring the

Influences of Food Supplements on the Public's Healthcare Decision-Making," the

statement of the problem highlights the central issues or questions that the research aims

to address. Below is the statement of the problem for this research topic:

In contemporary society, the use of food supplements has become increasingly

prevalent, influencing individuals' perspectives on health and wellness. As the public

engages with an expanding array of food supplements, there is a growing need to

understand the lived experiences and perceptions that shape their healthcare decision-

making processes. The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative research is to

explore the ways in which food supplements influence the public's healthcare decision-

making for individuals whom are within the age of 55 years old and older and are

currently residing in Koronadal City, unraveling the subjective meanings, motivations,

and influences that individuals attribute to these dietary choices. By exploring the

different personal experiences, this study aims to contribute various insights into the

factors shaping the public's decisions regarding the incorporation of food supplements

into their healthcare routines. Through a phenomenological lens, the researchers aim to

illuminate the underlying essence of these experiences and reveal the themes that will

emerge between individual perceptions, societal influences, and the broader healthcare

landscape. Ultimately, this research endeavors to provide a rich understanding of how

food supplements contribute to the healthcare decision-making among the public, offering

valuable perspectives for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, the academe, the nursing
 students, and the public alike.

Guided Questionnaires (Tentative)

Demographic data

 Age
 Sex
 Religion
 Address
1. Do you currently use any food supplements?

 YES
 NO
2. How often do you use food supplements?

 -Daily
 -Once a week
 -As needed
 -As prescribed by my physician
 -Other answers please specify:____________
3.What are your reasons for using these food supplements?

4. What are your experiences in using these food supplements?

5.. In your opinion, what do you think are the benefits of using food supplements?

6. Reflecting on your past experiences, can you share a specific situation where you decided to

use or not use a food supplement for health reasons?

6.1 How do you perceive the effectiveness of food supplements in comparison to other

healthcare options?

6.2Have you noticed any changes in your health or well-being that you attribute to the

use of food supplements?

7. What are your sources of information on the different food supplement products?

8. Have you ever been influenced by marketing or advertisements when choosing a food

supplement?

 YES

 NO

If yes, please specify how you were influenced:

9. Have societal trends or media representations played a role in shaping your perceptions and

decisions regarding food supplements?

8. Are you aware of any potential risks or concerns associated with the use of food supplements?

 YES
 NO
If yes, what potential risks with regard the use of food supplements are you aware of?

9. Have there been any unexpected consequences, positive or negative, related to your use of

food supplements?

10. How does the factors influence your decisions to use food supplements?

10.1 Have you faced any challenges or concerns in making healthcare decisions when

using food supplements?