Recurrent trauma: Holocaust survivors cope with aging and cancer

Background The current study aims to determine whether elderly Holocaust survivors are affected differently from non-survivors by the adversity of aging and cancer. Method Holocaust survivors and non-survivors suffering from cancer, were assessed tapping PTSD, psychiatric symptomatology, psychosocial adjustment to illness and coping with the aftermath of the Holocaust. Results Findings indicate a significant difference between survivors and non-survivors in post-traumatic symptoms and their intensity, survivors endorsing significantly more PTSD symptoms. Survivors were classified into 3 subgroups, namely ‘‘Victims,’’ ‘‘Fighters,’’ and ‘‘Those who made it’’. ‘‘Victims’’ reported the highest percentage of persons who met PTSD, psychiatric symptomatology and difficulty coping with the problems of old age. Conclusions The diversity of responses points to heterogeneity of long-term adaptation and adjustment among Holocaust survivors and similar response to subsequent adversity