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Related Experiment Videos

Functional changes in persons aging with spinal cord injury.

L Thompson1

  • 1Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Aging with Spinal Cord Injury, Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, Downey, CA 90242, USA.

Assistive Technology : the Official Journal of RESNA
|September 30, 2000
PubMed
Summary

Physical function declines in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) are linked to aging and longer injury duration. These changes increase the need for assistance with daily activities.

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Area of Science:

  • Rehabilitation Medicine
  • Neurology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to long-term physical function changes.
  • Aging and prolonged injury duration may exacerbate functional decline in SCI patients.
  • Understanding these changes is crucial for effective long-term care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess changes in physical function among individuals with SCI.
  • To evaluate the impact of these changes on activities of daily living (ADLs) and need for assistance.
  • To identify factors associated with functional decline in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 150 outpatients with SCI was studied.
  • Data collected on physical function, ADLs, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and assistance needs.

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  • Statistical analysis compared individuals with and without recent functional changes.

    • Main Results:

    • 24% of SCI individuals reported functional decline in the last 5 years.
    • Declines were significantly associated with older age (45 vs. 36 years) and longer injury duration (18 vs. 11 years).
    • Fatigue, pain, and weakness were common complaints; over half with declines needed more ADL assistance, often from family.

    Conclusions:

    • Advancing age and longer SCI duration increase vulnerability to functional loss.
    • Preventative measures and routine assessments are vital for SCI management.
    • Enhanced healthcare and support services are needed to mitigate functional decline effects.