Quality of Life Outcomes for Veterans With Spinal Cord Injury Receiving Individual Placement and Support (IPS)

Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation, 2018 · DOI: 10.1310/sci17-00046 · Published: May 3, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study examines the impact of the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program on the quality of life (QOL) of veterans with spinal cord injuries (SCI). IPS is a program designed to help individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment in their communities. The study looks at both vocational (employment-related) and non-vocational outcomes to understand the broader impact of IPS participation. It investigates how IPS affects veterans' QOL, whether or not they secure employment through the program. Researchers used a combination of surveys and interviews to collect data from veterans participating in IPS at various Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs). This mixed-methods approach provides both quantitative data and qualitative insights into the veterans' experiences.

Study Duration

24 Months

Participants

213 veterans with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
IPS participants who were competitively employed reported consistent improvements in handicap, health-related quality of life (QOL), and life satisfaction measures over time.
2
Qualitative interviews revealed improvements in QOL outcomes related to productivity and well-being for veterans participating in IPS, regardless of whether they secured employment.
3
Participants who became competitively employed during the study showed the most consistent improvement on measures from baseline to 12 months and 12 months to 24 months than individuals who never became competitively employed.

Research Summary

This mixed methods study examined QOL among veterans with SCI participating in IPS for 24 months. The study showed that IPS participants who become employed report consistent improvement in handicap, health-related QOL, and life satisfaction measures. The quantitative findings showed that participants who became competitively employed during the study showed the most consistent improvement on measures from baseline to 12 months and 12 months to 24 months than individuals who never became competitively employed. Participation in an IPS program can also be associated with some perceived improvement in QOL, particularly mental well-being. Further research is needed to understand the effect on participants in employment programs who do not become employed to identify strategies or practices to retain improvements in QOL experienced during the first year.

Practical Implications

Improved Quality of Life

Participation in IPS, particularly when leading to employment, is associated with improved quality of life for veterans with SCI.

Focus on Non-Vocational Outcomes

The study highlights the importance of considering non-vocational quality of life outcomes when evaluating the effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation programs like IPS.

Tailored Support Services

The findings suggest the need for tailored support services to address the specific needs and goals of veterans with SCI, both in securing and maintaining employment and in improving their overall well-being.

Study Limitations

1
The use of self-reported data
2
Generalizability to non-veteran and non-SCI populations may be limited.
3
The quantitative study measures were not linked chronologically to the time when employment was obtained.

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