Question
How do caregivers support individuals with spinal cord injuries, and what challenges do they encounter?
Answer
Caregivers play a pivotal role in the well-being and recovery journey of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). In the United States, an astounding 65 million individuals undertake the responsibility of providing informal care to those with chronic illnesses or disabilities, underscoring the widespread significance of caregiving. Despite their indispensable contributions, caregivers of individuals with SCI face unique and formidable challenges. They are at an elevated risk of experiencing physical strain from tasks like lifting and assisting with mobility, as well as mental and emotional stress stemming from the demanding nature of caregiving duties. Additionally, the social isolation often accompanying caregiving can further compound these challenges. Research suggests that this heightened burden can detrimentally impact caregivers' health-related quality of life and overall well-being. Therefore, understanding and addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with SCI is essential for promoting both their own health and the recovery outcomes of those they care for. (References: Juengst et al., 2019; Keihanian et al., 2022; Uhm et al., 2023)
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course Caregiving For The Spinal Cord Injury Patient, by Alaena McCool, MS, OTR/L, CPAM.
