Arbiters of Time: The Experience of Adults Aging with Spinal Cord Injury

J Ageing Longev, 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/jal3010005 · Published: January 1, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Aging Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores the experience of time for adults aging with spinal cord injury (SCI). It looks at how they manage their lives in anticipation of the future, considering the impact of accelerated aging. The research examines how individuals with SCI perceive and interact with time, especially considering the physical and health declines associated with aging and disability. It also investigates how they proactively structure their lives to manage their health and well-being. The study identifies two main themes: how time controls the body through accelerated aging and functional decline, and how individuals attempt to control time by actively managing their health and rejecting limitations imposed by their condition.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

23 adults with SCI

Evidence Level

Level IV, Qualitative Study

Key Findings

1
Aging with SCI is characterized by uncertainty and expectations of functional and health decline.
2
Participants understood that their lifespan was compressed due to the physiological impact of accelerated aging, making time a scarce resource.
3
Despite the impact of accelerated aging, individuals with SCI actively attempt to control and deaccelerate time through proactive health management and rejecting limitations.

Research Summary

This study examines the subjective experiences of adults aging with SCI, focusing on their relationship with time and the management of their lives in the face of accelerated aging. The research identifies themes related to time's control over the body and the individual's attempts to control time through proactive health measures and a rejection of limitations. The findings highlight the uncertainty and functional decline associated with aging with SCI, as well as the active role individuals take in managing their health and futures.

Practical Implications

Healthcare Awareness

Healthcare and rehabilitation practitioners should be aware of the challenges faced by their patients and listen to their needs regarding aging.

Resource Provision

Address the lack of equipment, caregivers, transportation, and other resources that can help facilitate activities for people with SCI.

Further Research

Examine the patterning of time-space resources and their impact, and the impact of socio-economic status on aging with a disability.

Study Limitations

1
The study did not specifically focus on the role of time.
2
Neither of the two authors who were central to conducting the coding and analysis have a disability.
3
The data were exploratory.

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