Depressive symptoms among older adults with long-term spinal cord injury: Associations with secondary health conditions, sense of coherence, coping strategies and physical activity
Sophie Jörgensen, Kathleen A. Martin Ginis, Susanne Iwarsson, Jan Lexell
Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, SE-221 00 Lund, Sverige. E-mail: sophie.jorgensen@med.lu.se
DOI: 10.2340/16501977-2259
Lay Abstract
Depression is common among people with spinal cord injury (SCI), but little is known about mental health among older adults with long-term injury. We investigated the presence of depressive symptoms and associated factors in 122 people who were at least 50 years old and had been living at least ten years with SCI. The results were encouraging as only 5% had signs of probable depression. Psychological resources, neuropathic pain and participation in physical activity were the strongest explanatory factors for depressive symptoms. The results imply that mental health among older adults with long-term SCI may be supported through rehabilitation that strengthens the ability to understand and confront life stressors, promotes acceptance of the injury, provides pain management and encourages participation in physical activity.
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