Objectives: This study examines the associations of cancer death and aspects of the 24-h circadian rest-activity rhythm (RAR) on depression symptoms in older spouses.
Methods: Participants included 46 adults aged 60-94 years (M = 73 years) who experienced the death of a spouse. We tested a multivariate model using cancer death (vs. non-cancer death) and RAR variables as correlates of depression symptoms while controlling for age, sex, physical illness burden, and preparedness for death. We also present a case example to describe the behavioral activity patterns of a participant bereaved by cancer.
Results: Cancer death was associated with elevated levels of depression symptoms. However, the timing of the RAR moderated this association. Cancer bereavement was associated with depression symptoms when participants "settled-down" after 11:00 PM. The case example illustrates how intrusive thoughts about death quality impacts a widower's drive to stay busy with daily activities.
Conclusions: Settling down earlier in the evening is important for older spouses bereaved by cancer, in terms of fewer symptoms of depression.
Clinical implications: Objectively specifying the activity patterns of older spouses bereaved by cancer is a promising avenue for interventions that aim to reduce depression symptoms.
Keywords: Cancer death; aging; bereavement; circadian rhythms; depression.