Cognitive function, quality of life, and aging: relationships in individuals with and without spinal cord injury

Physiother Theory Pract., 2022 · DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2020.1712755 · Published: January 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study explores the relationship between cognitive function, quality of life (QOL), and aging in individuals with and without spinal cord injury (SCI). It investigates whether the typical correlations observed in the general population are also present in those with SCI. The study found that individuals with SCI reported lower QOL in areas related to physical function but had similar or higher scores in positive affect and resilience. Cognitive function did not differ significantly between SCI and non-SCI groups. Notably, the strong correlations between age and cognitive function seen in the non-SCI group were absent in the SCI group, suggesting that the relationship between age, cognition, and QOL may be different in individuals with SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

23 individuals with complete SCI and 20 individuals without SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Individuals with SCI rated their global QOL lower than those without SCI on the EQ-5D QALY, but not on the EQ-5D VAS, indicating a potential recalibration of QOL assessments.
2
Strong correlations between age and cognition observed in the non-SCI group were absent in the SCI group, suggesting a dissociation of age, cognition, and QOL in SCI.
3
Individuals with SCI reported high QOL for positive affect/well-being and resilience, suggesting psychological adaptation to their condition.

Research Summary

The study investigated the relationships between cognitive function, QOL, and aging in individuals with and without SCI. It revealed that individuals with SCI reported lower QOL primarily in physical function domains but showed preserved or enhanced positive affect and resilience. A key finding was the dissociation of age, cognition, and QOL in the SCI group, contrasting with the strong correlations observed in the non-SCI group. This suggests that the typical relationships between these factors may be altered in individuals with SCI. The study highlights the potential for individuals with SCI to recalibrate their QOL assessments, minimizing the impact of mobility impairment. It also suggests that individual injury-specific factors may play a more significant role in cognitive function than age in this population.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategies

Rehabilitation specialists should consider the unique QOL profile of individuals with SCI, focusing on physical function and pain management while recognizing their potential for resilience and positive adaptation.

Cognitive Assessment

Rehabilitation specialists should be alert for cognitive impairment caused by injury-specific factors rather than solely relying on age-related expectations.

QOL Measurement

QOL instruments designed for the general population may not accurately capture the experience of people living with SCI, highlighting the need for SCI-specific measures.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size
2
Potential bias due to the specific characteristics of the SCI cohort (relatively high cognitive function and emotional health)
3
Lack of examination of potential confounding factors such as sleep apnea, psychotropic medications, and social/environmental context

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