Trajectories of life satisfaction over the first 10 years after traumatic brain injury: Race, gender, and functional ability

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J73643

Journal:

Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2016 , 31, 3, 167-179

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study investigated the influence of race, gender, functional ability, and an array of preinjury, injury-related, and sociodemographic variables on life satisfaction trajectories over 10 years following moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Using data from the TBI Model Systems database, a total of 3,157 individuals with TBI were included in this study. Hierarchical linear modeling analyses were conducted to examine the trajectories of life satisfaction. Patient characteristics (race, gender); the Functional Independence Measure and the Glasgow Coma Scale (functional ability); and the Satisfaction With Life Scale (life satisfaction) were utilized. Initial models suggested that life satisfaction trajectories increased over the 10-year period and Asian/Pacific Islander participants experienced an increase in life satisfaction over time. In a comprehensive model, time was no longer a significant predictor of increased life satisfaction. Black race, however, was associated with lower life satisfaction, and significant interactions revealed that Black participants’ life satisfaction trajectory decreased over time while White participants’ trajectory increased over the same time period. Life satisfaction trajectories did not significantly differ by gender, and greater motor and cognitive functioning were associated with increasingly positive life satisfaction trajectories over the 10 years. Findings suggest that individuals with more functional impairments are at risk for decreases in life satisfaction over time. Further research is needed to identify the mechanisms and factors that contribute to the lower levels of life satisfaction observed among Black individuals after TBI. This data is needed to determine strategic ways to promote optimal adjustment for these individuals.

Author(s):

Williamson, Meredith L. C., Elliott, Timothy R., Bogner, Jennifer, Dreer, Laura E., Arango-Lasprilla, Juan C., Kolakowsky-Hayner, Stephanie A., Pretz, Christopher R., Lequerica, Anthony , Perrin, Paul B.