Caring and Coping: the family perspective on living with limb loss
Abstract: This report presents findings of research into how veterans with limb loss, and their families, live with limb loss. Using Grounded Theory, data has been collected from 72 veterans and family members using unstructured interviews, structured questionnaires and closed question telephone interviews. Findings indicate, firstly, that the central concern of veterans with limb loss, and families, is coping during living with limb loss, and that the veteran with limb loss and their carer/s may experience differing levels of coping (low, mid, high) during any specific time period. Each coping level is characterised by behaviours/characteristics to which appropriate support can be aligned; secondly, there are distinct time periods where certain types of Blesma/organisational support are more likely to effectively support coping ability. This report presents these findings, which are developed into a practical Living with Limb Loss Support Model (LLSM). The LLSM identifies specific periods where timely support is more likely to be relevant and effective in supporting individual needs and coping levels, as further explained in the ‘Practical Application of Findings’.
Abstract: The unique demands of military life can adversely impact romantic relationships; however, research has mainly focused on these adverse outcomes at one-time point, overlooking changes over time or potential positive outcomes. Using a subsample of 3,845 male and female military personnel and veterans from a large UK dataset, this study examined positive and negative changes in relationship satisfaction between two-time points (2007–2009; 2014–2016). Most participants reported no change in their relationship satisfaction, suggesting stability − 8% reported a positive change and 10% a negative change. Positive change was associated with being in a long-term relationship, alcohol misuse remission, and persistent alcohol misuse. Negative change was associated with the onset of mental health problems (probable PTSD, CMD, or alcohol misuse) and having children under 18. Some factors, like increasing age, childhood family relationship adversity, and mental health problems, were associated with both positive and negative changes in relationship satisfaction. This study highlights the complexity of factors associated with relationship satisfaction among military personnel and veterans, with some experiencing positive changes, as well as negative changes over time.