Original Article
Spinal Cord (2007) 45, 411–419; doi:10.1038/sj.sc.3101973; published online 26 September 2006
Perceptions of issues associated with the maintenance and improvement of long-term health in people with SCI
1Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital, Canada
Correspondence: PJ Manns, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy, 2-50 Corbett Hall, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada T6G 2G4. E-mail: trish.manns@ualberta.ca
Abstract
Study design:
Qualitative design using focus groups.
Objective:
To explore the perceptions of people with SCI and their caregivers about information needs and service delivery options that may assist them to maintain or improve their long-term health.
Setting:
Province wide project in Alberta, Canada.
Methods:
Eight focus groups were conducted; five with community dwelling people with SCI and three with unpaid caregivers (family and friends). Content analysis was used to identify categories and themes arising from the data.
Results:
The findings from the study are broader than the original objective to explore information needs and service delivery options to promote long-term health. The participants more globally discussed factors that contribute to or provide barriers to their long-term health. Those factors are captured in five categories, including readiness, information pathways, community health care, health promotion, and contextual factors. A framework that illustrates the relationships between categories was constructed.
Conclusion:
The framework identifies areas to target in programmes designed to reduce or prevent secondary conditions in people with SCI.
Sponsorship:
This study was funded by the Alberta Paraplegic Foundation and the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation.
Keywords:
long-term health, health promotion, secondary conditions, physical disability
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