Social isolation after spinal cord injury: Indicators from the Longitudinal Aging Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Psychology

Background:

• Social isolation is a significant concern for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Understanding the multifaceted nature of social isolation, encompassing both objective and subjective experiences, is crucial for this population.
• Existing models may not fully capture the nuances of social isolation in aging adults with SCI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a conceptual model of social isolation in aging participants with SCI.
• To differentiate and assess the relationships between social disconnectedness (objective) and perceived isolation (subjective).
• To identify factors influencing social isolation within the SCI population.

Main Methods:

• Utilized cross-sectional data from 768 participants in the SCI Longitudinal Aging Study.
• Employed validated measures including the Life Situation Questionnaire, Craig Handicap Assessment Reporting Technique, and Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System.
• Applied structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized model of social isolation.

Main Results:

• The conceptual model demonstrated a good fit with the collected data.
• Perceived isolation was significantly correlated with social disconnectedness (r = .610).
• Older age, longer time since injury, and lower injury severity/level were associated with lower levels of perceived isolation and/or social disconnectedness.

Conclusions:

• A stable and validated model of social isolation for individuals with SCI was established.
• This model provides a framework for future research on the health impacts of social isolation post-SCI.
• The findings highlight the importance of considering both objective and subjective aspects of social isolation in SCI care and research.