Model System:
SCIReference Type:
JAAccession No.:
J49749.Journal:
Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development
Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):
, 42, 3, 87-110Publication Website:
Abstract:
Literature review examines how quality of life (QOL) is defined and measured for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Three different conceptualizations of QOL are reviewed: (1) QOL as subjective well-being, (2) QOL as achievement, and (3) QOL as utility. Most of the commonly used QOL instruments can be assigned to a specific conceptualization. Findings indicate that regardless of the conceptualization used, people with SCI tend to report fewer feeling of well-being; score lower on physical, mental, and social health and in other domains considered important to QOL; and have a state of health that is preferred much less compared to the average person without disabilities.
Author(s):
Dijkers, Marcel P. J. M.