SCI Longitudinal Aging Study: 40 Years of Research

This study examines the long-term effects of spinal cord injury (SCI) on aging, health, participation, and quality of life. It highlights the need to understand how aging impacts individuals with SCI, especially those who have lived with the condition for many years. The SCI Longitudinal Aging Study, initiated in 1973, is the longest-standing study of aging and SCI. It aims to understand the natural course of aging after SCI, focusing on health, community involvement, and overall well-being. The study involves multiple participant groups enrolled over 40 years, with repeated assessments to track changes over time. This approach helps researchers understand how outcomes evolve as individuals with SCI age.

• 1
  A 'survivor effect' exists, where individuals with SCI who are more active, well-adjusted, and healthier tend to live longer. This underscores the importance of psychosocial and vocational factors in longevity.
• 2
  Outcomes for individuals with SCI tend to improve initially but plateau or decline after 15-20 years, particularly in social participation and health. Employment outcomes, however, are often maintained.
• 3
  Subjective well-being (SWB) is multifaceted, with economic satisfaction improving over time but general satisfaction (social life, sex life, and health) declining.