Participation in leisure-time activities among people living with Spinal Cord Injuries. A cross-sectional survey.

STUDY

DESIGN

Cross-sectional descriptive survey.

OBJECTIVES

To assess participation levels, types of leisure-time activities, and barriers to engagement among people with spinal cord injury (SCI), and to identify demographic and functional factors influencing participation.

SETTING

Western Denmark.

METHODS

Between September and November 2023, adults with SCI were invited to complete a digital survey. Inclusion criteria were any level of SCI. Data collected included demographic and injury-related characteristics, types and frequency of leisure-time activities, social context, and perceived participation barriers. Analyses involved descriptive statistics, prevalence proportions, and prevalence proportion ratios.

RESULTS

Of 1259 eligible persons, 479 completed the survey. Participants engaged in a median of three different leisure-time activities over the past year. In the previous four weeks, 19% reported participating in leisure activities less than once per week. Participation in non-social and social activities less than once per week was reported by 44 and 37%, respectively. Lower participation was more common among persons with shorter educational attainment and reduced mobility at 100 meters. Most activities were self-organized or provided by commercial providers. The most commonly reported barriers were physical limitations, time constraints, and activity suitability.

CONCLUSIONS

Participation in leisure-time activities among people with SCI varies widely. In this study, social engagement, education level, and mobility were observed to be related to patterns of participation. Addressing physical, contextual, and logistical barriers through tailored interventions may enhance leisure-time engagement and support more holistic rehabilitation outcomes.