Correlation between medical coping style and mindfulness level of hospitalized elderly: implications for enhancing psychological well-being

Abstract

Background: The mindfulness level of hospitalized elderly is influenced by factors such as physical health, emotional resilience, and social support. However, little is known regarding the relationship between medical coping styles and mindfulness levels of hospitalized elderly. The aims of this study were to explore the association between medical coping styles and mindfulness levels in hospitalized elderly patients, with a focus on identifying actionable strategies to enhance patient well-being.

Methods: A survey of 253 elderly patients was conducted in the Department of Geriatrics of a 3 A hospital in Tangshan from September to November 2022 using the General Questionnaire, Medical Coping Style Scale (MCMQ), and Mindfulness-Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS).

Results: The average mindfulness level score of the hospitalized elderly was (59.71 ± 13.90), with a scoring rate of 66.34%, at a moderate mindfulness level. This study revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.725, P < 0.05) between confrontation coping and mindfulness, highlighting the importance of promoting active coping strategies to improve mindfulness levels in elderly patients.

Conclusion: The mindfulness level of the hospitalized elderly shows potential for improvement, their coping styles are closely related to their mindfulness level, and positive coping styles can help improve the mindfulness level of the hospitalized elderly. This study suggested that medical staff can consider formulating targeted interventions, contingent upon available resources and training, guide patients to establish positive coping styles, and improve the mindfulness level of hospitalized elderly people.

Keywords: Correlation; Hospitalized elderly; Medical coping style; Mindfulness level.