Psychosocial reintegration following traumatic spinal cord injury in South Africa: The influence of employment, injury characteristics and living situation

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2024 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2021.2016306 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Mental Health Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how employment, injury details, and where people live affect how well individuals with traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) reintegrate into society in South Africa. The study found that employment and living situation significantly influence psychosocial reintegration. Being employed improves reintegration, while living in informal housing hinders it. The researchers suggest that providing job opportunities and accessible housing can greatly improve the lives of those with TSCI, helping them adapt socially and psychologically after their injury.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

108 community- dwelling adults

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional exploratory survey

Key Findings

1
Employment status significantly influences psychosocial reintegration, with employed individuals reporting better outcomes.
2
Living in informal dwellings/shacks is associated with poorer psychosocial reintegration compared to living in formal houses or nursing homes.
3
Employment alone explained 24.3% of the variance in the overall psychosocial model.

Research Summary

This study assessed the experienced quality of psychosocial reintegration and determined the influence of employment, injury related characteristics and living situation among individuals who have sustained a TSCI in South Africa. Employment status and living situation were found to be significant factors influencing psychosocial reintegration among persons with a TSCI in South Africa. The study highlights the need for rehabilitation to focus on addressing barriers and challenges to meaningful occupations including return to work following injury.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Focus

Rehabilitation efforts should prioritize addressing barriers to employment and facilitating return to work for individuals with TSCI.

Policy Reform

Policies should promote comprehensive rehabilitation services and create more employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Accessible Housing

Providing accessible housing is essential for improving the living skills and psychosocial reintegration of individuals with TSCI.

Study Limitations

1
The sample size was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to all individuals with TSCI in South Africa.
2
The study did not include information about the completeness of the levels of injury, which could have influenced the results.
3
The study did not assess pre-injury employment status of the participants.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury