Predictors of resilience for people with spinal cord injury over two periods of COVID‑19 social distancing restrictions: a 12‑month longitudinal study using structural equation modelling

BMC Public Health, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-16238-x · Published: July 4, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury COVID-19 Mental Health

Simple Explanation

This study examines resilience in people with spinal cord injury (SCI) during COVID-19 lockdowns. Resilience is the ability to cope with adversity and is linked to better health outcomes. The research identified factors that helped people with SCI maintain their resilience during two strict lockdown periods in Victoria, Australia. These factors included psychological health and the ability to participate in social activities. The findings suggest that healthcare providers and public health departments should focus on programs that improve psychological health and promote participation and autonomy to support resilience in people with SCI during crises.

Study Duration

12 Months

Participants

127 (Lockdown 1) and 65 (Lockdown 2) people with SCI

Evidence Level

Longitudinal study

Key Findings

1
Increased family role limitations were negatively associated with resilience during both lockdowns.
2
Favorable psychological health was positively associated with resilience during both lockdowns.
3
Increased outdoor autonomy and social life limitations were negatively associated with psychological health, indirectly impacting resilience.

Research Summary

This longitudinal study investigated factors associated with resilience in people with SCI during two COVID-19 lockdown periods in Victoria, Australia. The study found that psychological health, family role limitations, and limitations in outdoor autonomy and social life were significantly associated with resilience. The findings suggest that interventions promoting psychological health, functional independence, and social participation can improve resilience in people with SCI during crises.

Practical Implications

Promote Psychological Health

Health and social care providers should prioritize web-based interventions like virtual reality experiences with natural environments, cognitive behavioral therapy, and health coaching.

Enhance Functional Independence

Provide allied health support, remove environmental barriers, and implement assistive technologies to improve functional independence at home and in the community.

Support Social Participation

Implement programs that assist in health condition management and promote peer-support engagement to reduce social life limitations.

Study Limitations

1
Data were derived during two periods of stringent social distancing restrictions, limiting generalizability to regions with less strict measures.
2
The Lockdown 2 data analysis was near to well powered (n=65 vs the sample of 70 required).
3
The study's findings may be difficult to confirm due to the unique scenario investigated (multiple stringent lockdowns during a global pandemic).

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