Article

Many individuals with spina bifida have impairments that limit
mobility and functional independence. Sedentary lifestyles and social isolation
are very prevalent. This study evaluated the association between the use of
mobility devices and degree of socialization. DESIGN: A retrospective chart
review was performed on 208 adults with spina bifida attending a university-based
clinic. Data collected included the Craig Handicap Assessment Reporting
Technique-Short Form, Beck Depression Inventory, and data on wheelchair and other
assistive technology use. We hypothesized that community and home mobility and
social integration, as measured by the Craig Handicap Assessment Reporting
Technique-Short Form, would be lower for manual and power wheelchair users than
for ambulators, regardless of depression scores or shunt history. RESULTS: We
found that individuals with spina bifida who used both manual and power
wheelchairs do have lower daily home and community activity levels compared with
ambulators, but that most individuals with spina bifida have low social
integration and economic self-sufficiency scores, regardless of whether they can
ambulate or use wheelchairs. These findings were not explained by wheelchair
quality because most were prescribed high-quality devices.
A high prevalence of
depression was also found. CONCLUSIONS: Special considerations for wheelchair
provision are discussed. Additional research is needed to identify other barriers
to social integration.

Langue : ANGLAIS