Longitudinal effects of time since injury and age at injury on outcomes of people with spinal cord injury in Queensland, Australia

Spinal Cord, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-022-00824-8 · Published: June 28, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study looks at how quality of life, physical ability, secondary health conditions, and community involvement change over time for people with spinal cord injuries. The study found that as time since injury increased, so did the number of secondary health conditions. However, quality of life, physical function, and community involvement remained stable. The researchers suggest that ongoing support and healthcare are important to help people with spinal cord injuries manage their health as they age.

Study Duration

15 years

Participants

270 community resident people with traumatic spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Longitudinal cohort study

Key Findings

1
Longer time since injury was associated with more secondary conditions.
2
There was no evidence of a time since injury effect on quality of life, physical function or participation.
3
Living with others was associated with better social QOL and higher physical function.

Research Summary

This study examined the longitudinal effects of time since injury and age at injury on outcomes of quality of life, physical function, secondary conditions, and participation in people with traumatic SCI. The main finding was that a longer time since injury was associated with more secondary conditions. The study also found that living with others was associated with better social QOL and higher physical function, highlighting the importance of social support.

Practical Implications

Targeted Support

Appropriate formal and informal supports are required to minimise the impact of emerging health problems as individuals age with SCI.

Service Model Improvements

Improvements in service models and delivery could partly explain why there was a reduction in SCSI scores over the years.

Living Situation Considerations

When assessing individuals for formal supports, it may be necessary to consider the living situations of people with SCI as they age and adjust supports accordingly.

Study Limitations

1
The study had an attrition rate of 42.6% over the study duration.
2
The current study was limited in the range of predictive/risk factors considered.
3
The study provides limited insight into the individual experience of changes in quality of life.

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