Factors associated with higher levels of grief and support needs among people bereaved during the pandemic: Results from a national online survey

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has affected millions of people’s experiences of bereavement. We aimed to identify risk factors for grief and support needs.MethodsOnline survey of people bereaved in the UK (deaths 16 March 2020-2 January 2021), recruited via media, social media, national associations/organisations. Grief was assessed using the Adult Attitude to Grief (AAG) scale, which calculates an overall index of vulnerability (IOV) (range 0-36). Practical and emotional support needs were assessed in 13 domains.Results711 participants, mean age 49.5 (SD 12.9, range 18-90). 628 (88.6%) were female. Mean age of the deceased 72.2 (SD 16.1). 311 (43.8%) deaths were from confirmed/suspected COVID-19. Mean IOV was 20.41 (95% CI = 20.06 to 20.77). 28.2% exhibited severe vulnerability (IOV ≥ 24). In six support domains relating to psycho-emotional support, 50% to 60% of respondents reported high/fairly high levels of need. Grief and support needs increased strongly for close relationships with the deceased (versus more distant) and with reported social isolation and loneliness (P < 0.001), whereas they reduced with age of the deceased above 40 to 50. Other risk factors were place of death and reduced support from health professionals after death (P < 0.05).ConclusionsHigh overall levels of vulnerability in grief and support needs were observed. Relationship with the deceased, age of the deceased, and social isolation and loneliness are potential indicators of those at risk of even higher vulnerability in grief and support needs. Healthcare professional support after death is associated with more positive bereavement outcomes.