Impact of Falls and Fear of Falling on Participation, Autonomy and Life Satisfaction in the First Year After Spinal Cord Injury

This study investigated how falls and fear of falling affect participation, autonomy, and life satisfaction in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) during their first year post-injury. Participation refers to involvement in life situations, while autonomy relates to independence. Understanding these factors can help improve rehabilitation programs. The study found that a fear of falling, more than the actual experience of falling, significantly predicted lower scores in autonomy, particularly in indoor and outdoor settings, and family roles. This suggests that psychological factors play a crucial role in limiting activities after SCI. Rehabilitation programs should specifically address the fear of falling to help individuals with SCI prepare for everyday mobility challenges. Interventions focusing on reducing anxiety and increasing self-confidence may improve participation and autonomy in daily life.

• 1
  Over one third (38.3%) of participants fell over the 6-month tracking period.
• 2
  Twenty-seven participants (45%) reported a fear of falling.
• 3
  Fear of falling significantly predicted scores of autonomy indoors, autonomy outdoors and family role.