Resilience in caregivers of elderly dependent relatives

The present study analyzes resilience' levels in caregivers of elderly dependent relatives and explores the characteristics of highly resilient caregivers. With this aim, the CD-RISC was selected to asses a sample of 111 caregivers. According with CD-RISC scores, two groups of subject were established: high vs. moderate or low resilience. Differences between both groups were examined. Although there were differences in the cognitive status of care recipient, the more relevant differences were found in mediator variables. So, highly resilient group reported greater levels of: satisfaction with social support, self-efficacy to control negative thoughts, extraversion and self-care; being these differences statistically significant. Moreover resilient caregivers tended to show less reaction to patient behavioral disturbance, and they had lower levels of depression and anxiety symptoms. These findings emphasize the relevance of resilience as a protective factor in chronic stress situations. This involves the incorporation of positive aspects to theoretical models of caregiving, which traditionally have focused on the development of symptoms.