Understanding the changing health care needs of individuals aging with spinal cord injury

Model System:

SCI

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J80539

Journal:

Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2019 , 25, 1, 62-73

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study explored changing healthcare needs of individuals aging with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their caregivers and identified the environmental supports and barriers to achieving long-term health and treatment outcomes. Inclusion criteria were age greater than 60 years old and 5 years post SCI. Between October 2014 and January 2016, 41 individuals with SCI and eight caregivers participated in semi-structured interviews. Emergent themes and quotations were noted and analyzed using established methods. Triangulation was used to establish rigor and trustworthiness. Data analysis of the interviews revealed four themes (health literacy, health services, changes with age, and environment) and 10 subthemes. Results suggest that rehabilitation programs should consider the health literacy of older individuals with SCI and their caregivers. Similarly, these programs should be designed to allow them to identify and utilize resources in solving barriers to everyday participation. Further investigation is required to examine the macro-environmental influences (systems and policies) on the changing healthcare needs of individuals aging with SCI.

Author(s):