Community Needs of People Living With Spinal Cord Injury and Their Family

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2012 · DOI: 10.1310/sci1802-122 · Published: January 1, 2012

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

Returning to the community after spinal cord injury can be difficult for both the injured individual and their family. They may require different services to help them participate in social activities and improve their overall well-being. This study looked at the needs of people with spinal cord injuries and their family members during the first year after rehabilitation, focusing on how well those needs are being met. Understanding these needs can help improve future interventions and policies designed to support their reintegration into the community.

Study Duration

1 Year

Participants

35 persons with SCI and 21 family members

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The most frequently mentioned needs for participants with SCI are SCI specialized health care, income support, equipment and technical aids, general health care, adapted transport, home support, and adapted housing.
2
Needs regarding equipment and technical aids as well as general health care seem to be well met. However, needs less frequently mentioned by participants are often unmet, such as emotional and psychological support or employment, education, and training
3
The most frequently mentioned need by family members is for information on social programs and services that exist in the community; however, it is met for only 9% of them.

Research Summary

Many needs were encountered the first year post rehabilitation by people with SCI and their family members. Results show that some of these needs are well met for participants. It is important to acknowledge these needs and to continue to offer services that meet them. Regarding needs of family members, results indicate the importance of increasing information on social programs and services.

Practical Implications

Improve Psychological Support

Increase availability and access to psychological support services for individuals with SCI to address unmet emotional and mental health needs.

Enhance Employment and Education Support

Develop programs to aid individuals with SCI in obtaining employment or pursuing educational opportunities, addressing the identified gap in support.

Increase Information on Social Programs

Disseminate comprehensive information on available social programs and services to family members of individuals with SCI to improve their awareness and access to support resources.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limits the interpretation of the results, especially regarding family members.
2
Reliance on self-reported needs may introduce bias.
3
The study focused on the first year post-rehabilitation, limiting the understanding of long-term needs.

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