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  4. Well on wheels intervention: Satisfaction with life and health for adults with spinal cord injuries

Well on wheels intervention: Satisfaction with life and health for adults with spinal cord injuries

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2020 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1554333 · Published: January 1, 2020

Spinal Cord InjuryParticipationRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study looks at factors affecting satisfaction with life (SWL) for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and the impact of a wellness program. The study found that being recently injured, single, or younger than 49 years old are linked to lower SWL. A 'Well on Wheels' program improved SWL for those starting with low SWL. Healthcare providers should consider time since injury, marital status and age when identifying SCI patients at risk of low SWL and who may benefit from wellness interventions.

Study Duration
2 years
Participants
72 individuals with spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Level II, Randomized controlled pilot intervention

Key Findings

  • 1
    Participants with low SWL were recently injured (<4.5 years), while persons with high SWL were married and younger (<49 years old).
  • 2
    Intervention participants with low SWL at baseline significantly improved SWL over time compared to those with high SWL (P = 0.02).
  • 3
    Years post-injury, marital status, and age as significant factors associated with SWL following SCI.

Research Summary

This study examined factors associated with satisfaction with life (SWL) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) and assessed the effects of the 'Well on Wheels' (WOW) intervention on SWL based on baseline SWL levels. The results indicated that recent injury, marital status, and age are significant predictors of SWL. The WOW intervention improved SWL among participants with low baseline SWL over a 2-year follow-up. The study highlights the importance of considering demographic and injury-related factors in identifying individuals at risk for low SWL and tailoring interventions to improve their well-being.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Healthcare providers should consider time post-injury, marital status, and age in identifying individuals at risk for low SWL who may benefit from wellness interventions.

Rehabilitation Focus

Rehabilitation programs should prioritize interventions that address the unique needs of individuals with recent injuries and those lacking strong social support systems.

Longitudinal Tracking

Continuous monitoring of SWL is necessary, as it is amenable to change and can be improved through targeted interventions.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size
  • 2
    Homogeneity of certain demographic characteristics (e.g. 89% white)
  • 3
    SWL was split by distribution to establish high and low groups

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