Do coping style and future time perspective relate to surrogate decision-making preparedness? A cross-sectional analysis of heart failure caregivers

Objectives: To assess if future time perspective (FTP) moderates the relationship between heart failure (HF) caregiver coping style and preparedness to make a surrogate medical decision. Method: Cross-sectional data was analyzed to assess associations among three different coping styles (i.e. avoidance, active, minimizing), FTP, and odds of feeling prepared to make a medical decision on behalf of a loved one with heart failure. Results: A total of 231 caregivers were included in analyses. No significant interaction effects emerged among coping style and FTP on odds of feeling prepared to make a surrogate medical decision. Caregiver burden was significantly and inversely related to feeling prepared across each coping style model. Reports of having the provider present for the medical wishes conversation was significantly related to odds of feeling prepared across each coping style model. Conclusion: FTP did not appear to moderate the relationship between coping styles and preparedness to make a medical decision on behalf of a loved one with heart failure. Future research should continue to explore possible characteristics that can be targeted to improve feelings of decision-making preparedness among caregivers of loved ones with HF.