Article

Understanding the factors that can predict greater quality of life
(QoL) is important for adults with spinal cord injury (SCI), given that they
report lower levels of QoL than the general population. OBJECTIVES: To build a
conceptual model linking SCI-related needs, secondary complications, and QoL in
adults with SCI. Prior to testing the conceptual model, we aimed to develop and
evaluate the factor structure for both SCI-related needs and secondary
complications. METHODS: Individuals with a traumatic SCI (N = 1,137) responded to
an online survey measuring 13 SCI-related needs, 13 secondary complications, and
the Life Satisfaction Questionnaire to assess QoL. The SCI-related needs and
secondary complications were conceptualized into factors, tested with a
confirmatory factor analysis, and subsequently evaluated in a structural equation
model to predict QoL. RESULTS: The confirmatory factor analysis supported a
2-factor model for SCI related needs, chi(2)(61, N = 1,137) = 250.40, P <.001,
comparative fit index (CFI) = .93, root mean square error of approximation
(RMSEA) = .05, standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = .04, and for 11 of
the 13 secondary complications, chi(2)(44, N = 1,137) = 305.67, P < .001, CFI =
.91, RMSEA = .060, SRMR = .033. The final 2 secondary complications were kept as
observed constructs. In the structural model, both vital and personal development
unmet SCI-related needs (beta = -.22 and -.20, P < .05, respectively) and the
neuro-physiological systems factor (beta = -.45, P < .05) were negatively related
with QoL. CONCLUSIONS: Identifying unmet SCI-related needs of individuals with
SCI and preventing or managing secondary complications are essential to their
QoL.

Langue : ANGLAIS