Understanding the Changing Health Care Needs of Individuals Aging With Spinal Cord Injury

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2019 · DOI: 10.1310/sci2501-62 · Published: January 1, 2019

Simple Explanation

The study explores the changing healthcare needs of individuals aging with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and their caregivers. It seeks to identify environmental factors that support or hinder long-term health and treatment outcomes for this population. The research involved interviews with individuals over 60 years old who had sustained an SCI at least 5 years prior, along with their caregivers, to understand their experiences and challenges. The findings highlight the importance of health literacy, access to appropriate health services, and the impact of environmental factors on the well-being and participation of older adults with SCI.

Study Duration

October 2014 and January 2016

Participants

41 individuals with SCI and eight caregivers

Evidence Level

Qualitative study

Key Findings

1
The study identified a continuum of health literacy among individuals with SCI, impacting their ability to manage medications and engage in rehabilitation programs.
2
Participants expressed challenges in accessing health services due to financial constraints and limitations in insurance coverage, forcing them to prioritize essential needs.
3
Functional changes with age, compounded by SCI, lead to diminished health status, altered participation levels, and varying degrees of future orientation among individuals.

Research Summary

This qualitative study explored the changing health care needs of individuals aging with SCI and their caregivers, identifying environmental supports and barriers to achieving long-term outcomes. Four key themes emerged from the interviews: health literacy, health services, functional changes with age, and the influence of the environment (both human and non-human). The study emphasizes the need for rehabilitation programs to address health literacy, ensure access to appropriate health services, and consider environmental factors to promote participation and well-being in older adults with SCI.

Practical Implications

Enhance Health Literacy

Rehabilitation programs should focus on improving health literacy among older individuals with SCI and their caregivers, providing them with the knowledge and skills to manage their health effectively.

Improve Access to Health Services

Address barriers to accessing health services, such as financial constraints and insurance limitations, to ensure individuals with SCI receive the necessary care and support.

Promote Environmental Adaptations

Facilitate modifications to the physical environment and promote social support networks to enhance participation and quality of life for older adults with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size from a single rehabilitation center.
2
Caregiver interviews conducted in the presence of the participant, potentially influencing responses.
3
Lack of direct association between changes in participation and life satisfaction/QOL.

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