The health and life priorities of individuals with spinal cord injury: a systematic review

Abstract

Determining the priorities of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) can assist in choosing research priorities that will ultimately improve their quality of life. This systematic review examined studies that directly surveyed people with SCI to ascertain their health priorities and life domains of importance. Twenty-four studies (a combined sample of 5262 subjects) that met the inclusion criteria were identified using electronic databases (Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO). The questionnaire methods and domains of importance were reviewed and described. While the questionnaires varied across studies, a consistent set of priorities emerged. Functional recovery priorities were identified for the following areas: motor function (including arm/hand function for individuals with tetraplegia, and mobility for individuals with paraplegia), bowel, bladder, and sexual function. In addition, health, as well as relationships, emerged as important life domains. The information from this study, which identified the priorities and domains of importance for individuals with SCI, may be useful for informing health care and research agenda-setting activities.

Conflict of interest statement

AUTHOR DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

The authors report no disclosures. No competing financial interests exist for any of the authors.

Figures

Figure 1

Model of subjective QOL (adapted from Dijkers MP. (2003) Individualization in quality of life measurement: Instruments and approaches. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 84(4 suppl 2), S3–14.)

Figure 2

Flowchart of article selection process

Figure 3

Summary of review findings