Additive Effect of Age on Disability for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries

Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2014 · DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2014.01.022 · Published: June 1, 2014

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how age affects disability in adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It examines whether older individuals with SCI experience a greater decline in functional independence over time compared to younger individuals with SCI. The study uses data from a large group of individuals with SCI, looking at their independence in daily activities over several years. By analyzing this data, the researchers aim to understand the relationship between age at injury and the progression of disability. The findings suggest that older age at the time of SCI can lead to a more rapid decline in independence in daily activities. This highlights the importance of interventions that address the specific needs of older adults with SCI to help them maintain their health and independence.

Study Duration

1988-2011

Participants

1,660 individuals with SCI

Evidence Level

Prospective cohort study

Key Findings

1
Age at SCI was significantly associated with motor-FIM score, indicating that older individuals tend to have lower functional independence.
2
Sensitivity analyses showed that age at injury moderates the association between disability and time, with older individuals experiencing a more rapid increase in disability over time.
3
Individuals who sustained a SCI at an older age show a different course of disability than those who are younger at the time of injury.

Research Summary

The study examined the additive effect of age on disability for adults with SCI using a prospective cohort study design. The results indicated that age at injury is associated with motor-FIM score, and sensitivity analyses showed that age moderates the relationship between disability and time. The findings suggest that older individuals with SCI may experience a more rapid decline in functional independence, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Develop interventions specifically designed to address the accelerated aging experienced by individuals with SCI, particularly those who are older at the time of injury.

Long-Term Health Monitoring

Implement long-term health monitoring and screening programs to ensure that adults aging with SCI maintain their health and independence.

Preventative Strategies

Create preventative interventions to slow the progression of accelerated aging experienced by individuals with SCI, focusing on those injured at an older age.

Study Limitations

1
The study sample may not be fully representative of the entire population of individuals with SCI.
2
The average follow-up time was relatively short, which may limit the ability to draw definitive conclusions about long-term effects.
3
The primary outcome measure (motor-FIM) has limitations and does not assess other important quality of life variables.

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