Leisure participation for individuals living with acquired spinal cord injury

Traditionally, rehabilitation professionals have viewed and studied leisure participation in terms of quantifiable activities. Advances in leisure studies have, however, led to recognition of the need for and value of examining leisure as a subjective experience too. Accordingly, this study used a qualitative approach to explore postinjury leisure participation for individuals living with acquired spinal cord injury. A secondary analysis was performed for data from a primary study that examined social adaptation needs related to community living after rehabilitation. Participants who had completed their initial rehabilitation at least 3 years earlier took part in in-depth, personal interviews. The analysis identified specific leisure activities participants had done and/or are doing after spinal cord injury. It also provided insight into how and why these activities are being done and/or not being done. Major findings are illustrated by participants' personal verbatim quotes. Implications and recommendations for further research and professional practice in rehabilitation are outlined.