Psychological Resilience and Care Burden Among Caregivers in Palliative Care Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective

Caregivers have a key role in the palliative care process. However, they need to cope with the challenges brought about by caregiving. Psychological resilience is an important concept for caregivers in coping with challenges. This study examined the relationship between psychological resilience and care burden among caregivers in palliative care settings.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 120 caregivers in the palliative care clinic between December 2023 and May 2024 in Turkey. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Resilience Scale for Adults (RSA), and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and simple and multiple linear regression analyses.

Results

The mean total RSA score was 123.93 ± 14.00, which was above average. The mean total ZCBS score was 40.08 ± 11.79, and 47.5% of the caregivers had moderate levels of care burden. A negative statistically significant correlation was found between mean RSA and ZCBS scores (P < .01). Psychological resilience alone was a significant predictor of care burden (R² = 0.096, P < .001). Psychological resilience, income status, and family/work/social roles and responsibilities were all statistically significant predictors of care burden (R² = 0.285, P = .000).

Conclusions

The results of this study revealed that psychological resilience is important in the care burden perceived by caregivers in palliative care settings. Therefore, it is important for health professionals to incorporate interventions aimed at enhancing caregivers’ psychological resilience into their programs.