Coping, Social Support, and Caregiver Well-Being With Families Living With SCI: A Mixed Methods Study

This research explores the challenges and support systems for family caregivers of adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) using a combination of interviews and surveys. The study identified three different profiles of caregivers based on their problem-solving skills and satisfaction with social support, revealing how these factors influence their well-being. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive support programs that focus on developing coping skills, providing respite care, and offering mental health resources to improve the well-being of caregivers and their families.

• 1
  The study identified three caregiver profiles: effective problem solvers, mixed problem solvers with negative orientations, and low endorsers overall, each with distinct levels of social support, coping mechanisms, and well-being.
• 2
  Effective problem-solving skills and strong social support networks are associated with greater caregiver well-being and fewer unmet needs.
• 3
  Caregivers with negative problem-solving orientations and those who under endorsed social support reported higher levels of burden, isolation, and unmet needs.