Health Soc Care Community, 2022 · DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13958 · Published: July 16, 2022
Social distancing restrictions, while important for controlling COVID-19, can negatively impact health and access to services, especially for those with disabilities. This study examined how lifting social distancing restrictions affected autonomy, health service access, health issues, and quality of life for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Victoria, Australia. The study found that after restrictions were lifted, participants experienced more health conditions, better access to health services, and fewer limitations in participation and autonomy.
Clear definitions of essential care are needed to ensure eligible individuals receive required care during lockdowns.
Health and social services need adequate resources to address potential increases in health issues, especially for populations at higher risk of secondary issues.
Understand the adverse consequences of social participation limitations to inform support for people during and after lockdowns.