The overall goal of this exploratory study of persons with spinal cord injuries (SCI) was to describe the impact of their orientation to life, environmental barriers, impairment, secondary conditions and demographic factors on their perceived health related quality of life (HRQoL). The results of the research are intended to provide new information regarding factors that contribute to the support and the deterioration of the health of persons with SCI, to guide the evolvement of more effective individually tailored clinical, and community-based interventions for persons with SCIs. No studies have investigated HRQoL as a co-function of orientation to life, environment, and physical status. Collecting and analyzing data from an Internet sample survey of persons with chronic SCI accomplished this goal. HRQoL was measured by the MOS SF-36 Version 2, adapted for persons with SCI. In addition, measures of the individual's orientation to life, physical status including secondary conditions, and environmental barriers contributed to the analysis of HRQoL. The MOS SF-36 mental and physical health summary findings are comprised of 8 subscales. The subscales will be identified and the summary findings will be reported. Furthermore, risk factors for diminished HRQoL will be examined, together with implications for support of the health of persons with SCI. Since the use of the Internet as a survey method for this type of research is new, the limitations and the strengths of this medium for promoting participation among persons with SCI will also be discussed. See www.spinalcordquality.org
Learning Objectives: The participant will be able to: 1. Describe the use of the MOS SF-36 Version 2, adapted for persons with spinal cord injuries 2. Discuss the Mental and Physical Health Summary Scale survey findings 3. Articulate strengths and limitations of the use of the Internet for conducting this type of research
Keywords: Health Indices, Special Populations
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.