Change in resilience among spousal caregivers of patients with newly-diagnosed advanced cancer over the first six months posttreatment in China

Abstract

ObjectiveA longitudinal observational study was conducted and aimed to examine the change in resilience among spousal caregivers of newly-diagnosed advanced cancer patients over the first six months after initial treatment. MethodsIn total, 312 Chinese spousal caregivers who were taking care of their patients with newly-diagnosed advanced cancer were recruited. The level of resilience was measured using the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale at the first month post-initial treatment (T1), three-month post-initial treatment (T2), and six-month post-initial treatment (T3). Latent growth modeling analyses were performed to examine changes in resilience using Mplus 8.3. ResultsThe mean scores of resilience in spousal caregivers were 54.01 ± 7.68 at T1, 56.20 ± 6.38 at T2, and 57.97 ± 6.70 at T3, respectively. Results of latent growth modeling indicated that spousal caregivers showed a significant increase in their resilience scores over the first six months post-treatment (Mean slope = 1.98, p < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant individual variation in the rate of changes in resilience scores allowed spouses to be categorized into two groups: 42.9% participants with fast growth and 57.1% participants with slight growth. ConclusionOur findings highlight the importance that new knowledge about change patterns of resilience in the nursing field is beneficial to reveal different psychosomatic health. Acknowledging that resilience is a dynamic process that changes over time, it is crucial for healthcare providers to monitor the psychological adjustment and focus of vulnerable caregivers, particularly spouses.