Identifying the heterogeneity of physical resilience in Chinese older adult stroke patients using latent profile analysis and network analysis

Abstract Background Physical resilience varies widely among older stroke survivors, yet its latent heterogeneity and underlying psychosocial mechanisms remain unclear. Aim To identify distinct subgroups of physical resilience in older adults with stroke and to examine differences in network structures across these subgroups. Design: A cross-sectional study. Methods A total of 346 older adults with stroke were recruited from a tertiary Grade‑A hospital in Daqing, China, between May 2025 and January 2026 using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using the Physical Resilience Instrument for Older Adults (PRIFOR), the Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS), the Patient Health Questionnaire‑9 (PHQ‑9), the Self‑Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), the Health Behavior Scale for Stroke Patients (HBS‑SP) and the Stroke Self‑Efficacy Questionnaire (SSEQ). Latent profile analysis and network analysis were performed. Results Three latent profiles were identified: low physical resilience–externally dependent profile (31.5%), moderate physical resilience–balanced profile (35.0%) and high physical resilience–proactive optimistic profile (33.5%). Education, comorbidities, social support, anxiety, depression, health behaviors, and rehabilitation self-efficacy predicted profile membership. Network structures were globally similar but differed significantly between moderate and high resilience groups; coping and lifestyle adjustment was the core bridge node. Conclusion Physical resilience in older stroke patients exhibits heterogeneous characteristics and can be categorised into three profiles with distinct network configurations. Nursing managers can provide targeted intervention strategies based on these profiles. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution.