Original Article

Spinal Cord (2008) 46, 380–385; doi:10.1038/sj.sc.3102088; published online 19 June 2007

Predicting life satisfaction after spinal cord injury in a Canadian sample

M Tonack1, S L Hitzig1,2, B C Craven1,3, K A Campbell4,5,6,7, K A Boschen1,6,7 and C F McGillivray1,3

  1. 1Lyndhurst Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  2. 2Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  3. 3Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  4. 4Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  5. 5Bloorview Kids Rehab, Bloorview Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  6. 6Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  7. 7Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Correspondence: SL Hitzig, Lyndhurst Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, 520 Sutherland Drive, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4G 3V9. E-mail: hitzig.sander@torontorehab.on.ca

Received 15 January 2007; Revised 9 March 2007; Accepted 12 May 2007; Published online 19 June 2007.

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Abstract

Study design:

 

Cross-sectional, survey.

Objectives:

 

To extend current theoretical models predicting life satisfaction post-spinal cord injury (SCI). Our primary model predicting life satisfaction as measured by the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) examined demographic characteristics, elements of the International Classification of Functioning and subjective and objective measures of health. A second model was developed to examine factors that are associated with successful community participation as measured by the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNL). In addition, the effects of psychological distress and chronic pain on life satisfaction and community participation were examined.

Setting:

 

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Lyndhurst Centre.

Methods:

 

Prospective data collection via semi-structured telephone interview on an established SCI Canadian sample.

Results:

 

In predicting life satisfaction, our model accounted for 35.3% of the variance with demographic characteristics, objective and subjective health, and community participation significantly contributing to the model. In particular, psychological complications, current health rating and community participation were the only variables that made significant contributions in predicting life satisfaction. With regards to community participation, the presence of psychological complications and number of medical complications were associated with decreased reintegration. Increased time since injury onset, higher health ratings and being employed were positively related to RNL.

Conclusion:

 

It would appear that factors involving functional decline and aging are associated with lower participation but not life satisfaction. Further, models predicting quality of life should incorporate measures of psychological functioning.

Sponsorship:

 

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute

Keywords:

life satisfaction, health status, participation, aging, psychological distress, pain

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