What determines low satisfaction with life in individuals with spinal cord injury?

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2019 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1466480 · Published: January 1, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores factors affecting life satisfaction in Veterans with spinal cord injury (SCI). It looks at how demographic factors, injury characteristics, health conditions, symptoms like pain and depression, social support, grief/loss feelings, and independence relate to low life satisfaction. The research found that pain and grief/loss due to the injury are linked to lower satisfaction with life. Conversely, feeling independent and having good social support are associated with higher life satisfaction. The findings suggest that to improve life satisfaction, interventions should focus on addressing pain, fostering independence and social support, and helping individuals cope with grief/loss related to their injury.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

896 Veterans with SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey

Key Findings

1
Experiencing pain significantly increases the odds of low satisfaction with life in individuals with SCI.
2
Greater feelings of grief/loss due to injury are associated with increased odds of low life satisfaction.
3
Higher levels of emotional social support and greater independence are associated with lower odds of low satisfaction with life.

Research Summary

This study aimed to identify variables independently associated with satisfaction with life (SWL) in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). It hypothesized that low levels of social support, increased feelings of grief/loss, and reduced independence would be linked to lower SWL. The study found that pain and grief/loss due to injury were associated with low SWL. Conversely, self-perceived independence and good social support were associated with better SWL. The authors conclude that interventions aimed at improving SWL in individuals with SCI should address pain, facilitate independence and social support, and focus on helping individuals deal with grief/loss related to their injury.

Practical Implications

Targeted Interventions

Healthcare providers should focus on pain management strategies for SCI patients to improve their life satisfaction.

Psychological Support

Offer grief counseling and therapies to help individuals with SCI cope with loss and adjust to their new circumstances.

Promote Independence

Develop rehabilitation programs that foster independence and enhance social support networks for individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
The findings are based on self-report data, which may be subject to bias.
2
Several participants were excluded from analyses due to missing data, potentially impacting the generalizability of the results.
3
Veterans with SCI may have different characteristics and access to healthcare compared to civilian populations, limiting generalizability.

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