Psychosocial Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Women with Spinal Cord Injury

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146387 · Published: July 18, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Women's Health Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic affected women with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in the United States. Women with SCI face challenges that can lower their quality of life, and these challenges were made worse by the restrictions during the pandemic. The study found that most women with SCI felt the pandemic had a negative impact on their lives. They experienced increased feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and frustration due to reduced social interactions and concerns about their health and safety. Despite the challenges, some women reported positive impacts, such as having more time for self-care, hobbies, and connecting with family. The study emphasizes the importance of providing accessible support and resources for women with SCI, especially during public health crises.

Study Duration

May–October, 2020

Participants

105 women with traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The majority of participants (54%) described the overall impact of COVID-19 as negative, while 10% reported positive impacts, 21% mixed impacts, and 15% neutral impacts.
2
The most frequently mentioned theme was the impact of COVID-19 on mental health, with over 70% of the women noting this impact. Of these women, 61% expressed negative sentiments.
3
More than half (55%) of the respondents made reference to the pandemic's impact on their social health, with the majority of sentiments coded as negative (59%).

Research Summary

This study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women with spinal cord injury (SCI) in the United States. It utilized a qualitative approach, analyzing responses to an open-ended question about how COVID-19 affected their lives. The study identified eight key themes, including physical health, mental health, social health, work, exercise, activities of daily living, activities at home, and activities outside the home. The majority of participants reported negative impacts, particularly on their mental and social health. Despite the predominantly negative experiences, some women reported positive impacts, such as increased time for self-care, hobbies, and connecting with family. The study emphasizes the need for disability-sensitive support and resources for women with SCI during public health crises.

Practical Implications

Policy and Resource Allocation

Advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to healthcare, testing, and vaccines for women with SCI during public health crises.

Mental Health Support

Increase the availability and accessibility of mental health services tailored to the unique needs of women with SCI.

Community Engagement

Facilitate and promote community engagement activities, both online and in-person, to combat social isolation among women with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size may limit the ability to detect significant differences.
2
The results may not be generalizable to other women or people of other genders with SCI.
3
The sample was not fully representative in terms of level of education, race, and resources.

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