Activation for Health Management in Colorectal Cancer Survivors and Their Family Caregivers

Abstract

Activation, the state of possessing the skills, knowledge, and confidence to manage one's own health, is associated with positive self-management behaviors in individuals with chronic illness. Little is known about its role in cancer survivorship. The aims of this study were to describe activation in patients with colorectal cancer and their family caregivers, examine the relationship between patient and caregiver activation, and determine whether activation is related to symptom distress, depression, anxiety, fatigue, physical activity, and work productivity. Using a longitudinal, correlational design, a convenience sample of 62 patients and 42 family caregivers completed surveys during postoperative hospitalization, and at 6 weeks and 4 months postop. Activation scores for both patients and caregivers were stable over time, were not correlated, and were at the third level of activation. Linear mixed effects models revealed that negative emotions were associated with less patient activation and lower caregiver self-efficacy for caring for oneself.