Exploring well-being services from the perspective of people with SCI: A scoping review of qualitative research

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF QUALITATIVE STUDIES ON HEALTH AND WELL-BEING, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2021.1986922 · Published: January 1, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study reviews qualitative research on well-being services for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It aims to understand their experiences and perspectives on interventions targeting well-being, which can inform better service design. The review analyzes themes from 38 studies, focusing on service activities, valued aspects, limitations, and perceived outcomes. Most studies lacked a clear conceptual framework for well-being. People with SCI valued being treated with dignity, positive expectations, autonomy, and peer support. Services can improve well-being, but opportunities for engagement are limited.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

38 qualitative studies related to well-being programs for people with SCI

Evidence Level

Qualitative scoping review

Key Findings

1
People with SCI highly value being treated with dignity and respect by service providers, which significantly impacts their perception of care and overall well-being.
2
Peer support and interaction with others in similar situations is a crucial component of well-being services, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.
3
Opportunities for long-term gains and improvements are highly valued, indicating a need for ongoing support and services beyond the initial rehabilitation period.

Research Summary

This scoping review synthesizes qualitative research on well-being services for individuals with SCI from various disciplines to identify key aspects valued by service users. The review found that despite a lack of explicit well-being frameworks in many studies, participants reported various well-being outcomes from services that emphasized respect, autonomy, and peer support. The study highlights the need for increased opportunities for people with SCI to engage in well-being-related services, especially within community settings and in the long term.

Practical Implications

Service Design

Services should be designed to explicitly address well-being elements, incorporating positive and empowering approaches.

Professional Development

Training for service providers should emphasize the importance of treating individuals with SCI with dignity, respect, and positive expectations.

Community Integration

Efforts are needed to increase opportunities for community-based well-being services and peer support networks for individuals with SCI, particularly in the long term.

Study Limitations

1
The review primarily includes studies from the USA and Canada, limiting the generalizability to other cultural contexts.
2
Exclusion of studies published in languages other than English may have resulted in missing perspectives from non-English speaking countries.
3
Some studies included participants with a range of conditions, making it difficult to isolate findings specific to individuals with SCI.

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