Effects of a Five-Dimensional Intervention Program Based on Inner Strength on Demoralization Syndrome in Elderly Cancer Patients

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 60 years
• Diagnosis of a malignant tumor confirmed by pathological biopsy or imaging, in accordance with the Diagnosis and Treatment Specifications for Malignant Tumors
• Fulfillment of the diagnostic criteria for demoralization syndrome, described as a score > 30 on the Chinese version of the Demoralization Scale (DS)
• Clear consciousness, with the capability to communicate effectively or complete questionnaires, and no evidence of cognitive impairment
• Voluntary participation with signed informed consent
• Expected survival ≥ 3 months, without vital organs' severe dysfunction, including the liver, kidneys, or heart

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of psychiatric disorders, severe cognitive impairment, aphasia, or other conditions that would interfere with participation in the intervention or assessments
• Severe complications, cachexia, or rapidly progressing disease
• Receipt of psychological interventions or psychotropic medications within the previous month
• Transfer to another hospital, withdrawal from the study, or loss to follow-up during the study period
• A history of alcohol or drug dependence