An examination of objective social disconnectedness and perceived social isolation among persons with spinal cord injury/dysfunction: a descriptive cross-sectional study

• Published in: Disability and rehabilitation 2021-01, Vol.43 (1), p.69-75
• Main Authors: Guilcher, Sara J. T., Catharine Craven, B., Bassett-Gunter, Rebecca L., Cimino, Stephanie R., Hitzig, Sander L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: loneliness; network intimacy; social disconnectedness; social isolation; social networks; Spinal cord injury
• ISSN: 0963-8288; 1464-5165
• DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2019.1616328

To describe objective social disconnectedness and perceived social isolation post-spinal cord injury/dysfunction (SCI/D), and to examine associations among social disconnectedness and social isolation by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. A telephone-based questionnaire was administered to 170 community dwelling individuals with a SCI/D. Social disconnectedness was measured by social network size, composition, and frequency of contact. Social isolation was measured using the revised three item UCLA Loneliness Scale. Of the 170 participants, the majority were men (n = 136, 80%), had a traumatic injury (n = 149, 87.6%), and had incomplete tetraplegia (n = 58, 34%). The mean network size was 3.86 (SD = 2.0) of a maximum seven. The mean loneliness score for the sample was 4.93 (SD = 1.87). Factors associated with lower feelings of loneliness included being married, living with a higher proportion of network members, and being employed. Size of networks was not significantly associated with feelings of loneliness. This study highlights the vulnerability for perceived social isolation among persons with SCI/D. The size of network does not seem to matter as much as the frequency and quality of social interactions. Findings reinforce the complexity of social disconnectedness and the importance in understanding the various indicators of social disconnectedness as they relate to social isolation. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Social relationships have been shown to be a vital component of optimal health and well-being. Individuals with a spinal cord injury/dysfunction are faced with a number of challenges in developing and maintaining social relationships and community participation. Rehabilitation professionals should encourage opportunities for social inclusion, employment and community participation to optimize health and well-being for this population.