Rebuild, reconnect, revitalize (3R) program to transit older cancer survivors in the community - A pilot mixed...

A Rebuild, Reconnect, Revitalize (3R) program was developed with a structured, transitional care intervention for older cancer survivors. The study examined the program's preliminary effectiveness in improving resilience, stress, social isolation, loneliness, health practices, quality of life, and physical function, and evaluated the feasibility of the program's workflow, safety, and participant satisfaction.

A mixed-methods study design was adopted. In Phase I, a non-equivalent comparison group trial was conducted. Participants in the intervention group received the 4-week 3R program, while participants in the control group received standard care in the community. The 3R program was developed using the theoretical framework of Salutogenesis. Quantitative outcomes were measured using Brief Resilience Coping Scale, Social Isolation Scale, de Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, Self-Rated Abilities for Health Practices Scale, World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument - Older Adults Module, Short Physical Performance Battery at baseline and post-intervention. Descriptive statistics, paired, and independent t-test were used in data analysis. In Phase II, a qualitative process evaluation was applied. Two focus group discussions were conducted. Responses were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim to facilitate the inductive process of thematic analysis.

The intervention group showed improvements in their resilience (p = 0.06), stress level (p = 0.02), quality of life (p = 0.03), and physical function mobility (p = 0.13) as compared to the control group, albeit these findings were insignificant. Three main themes were identified: navigating dynamic recovery through increased comprehensibility and manageability; pursuing social opportunities through support and renewed engagement; and appraisal and recommendations for future cancer survivorship.

The 3R program showed potential biopsychosocial benefits for older cancer survivors. The 3R program may enhance psychosocial and physical outcomes for older cancer survivors, empowering them to manage their health confidently in the community. Future research should explore long-term sustainability. Policymakers could consider the program's promising potential and expand it into a full-fledged transitional care service.