Global and domain-specific life satisfaction among older adults with long-term spinal cord injury

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2021 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2019.1610618 · Published: May 7, 2019

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how satisfied older adults with long-term spinal cord injuries are with their lives. It explores what factors, like having a partner or health issues, are linked to their overall satisfaction. The findings can help create better rehabilitation programs to improve their long-term well-being.

Study Duration

Cross-sectional

Participants

78 individuals (32% women, injury levels C1-L3, AIS A-D), mean age 68 years, mean time since injury 31 years

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Participants reported lower satisfaction with sexual life, activities of daily living, and somatic health.
2
Having a partner and being vocationally active were associated with greater life satisfaction.
3
Participants with AIS D injuries were less satisfied with their somatic health compared to those with tetraplegia or paraplegia AIS A-C.

Research Summary

The study assessed global and domain-specific life satisfaction among older adults with long-term SCI and investigated associations with sociodemographics, injury characteristics, and secondary health conditions. Participants were generally satisfied with most life domains, but rated the lowest satisfaction with sexual life, activities of daily living, and somatic health. The social context, participation in meaningful activities, and minimizing secondary health conditions seem important for maintaining life satisfaction in older adults with long-term SCI.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Address specific domains with low satisfaction (sexual life, ADL, somatic health) in clinical practice.

Social Support

Promote social engagement and meaningful activities to improve overall life satisfaction.

Healthcare Management

Minimize secondary health conditions to enhance life satisfaction in older adults with long-term SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Cross-sectional data limits conclusions about causal relationships.
2
Heterogeneous population in regard to injury characteristics may limit specific conclusions.
3
Sample size did not permit further analyses in relation to the level and severity of the injury.

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