Life satisfaction after traumatic brain injury and the World Health Organization model of disability.
OBJECTIVE
To determine which components of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) are most predictive of global life satisfaction after traumatic brain injury (TBI).


METHODS
Prospective evaluation of 180 individuals enrolled in a TBI model system project site.


RESULTS
Multiple regression analysis indicated that the combination of ICF components (body function and structure, activities, and participation) and demographic factors significantly predicted life satisfaction and accounted for 17% of the variance. Participation was the strongest predictor; activities were a significant, but weaker predictor; and body function and structure did not add to the prediction of life satisfaction. Of all the individual variables evaluated, only social integration and productivity were found to be significant, unique predictors.


CONCLUSIONS
When considering the effects of various aspects of disabling conditions on the life satisfaction of individuals who have suffered a TBI, restriction of participation in life activities was found to have the greatest impact. Although the model accounted for a significant percentage in the variation of life satisfaction, a large proportion of the predictive picture (>82%) remains unclear. Doubtless, other variables impinge on life satisfaction that would further clarify the complex relationship between disabling conditions and life satisfaction in TBI.
Pierce
Christopher A
CA
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Hanks
Robin A
RA
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000208:ethnology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016014:Linear Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000208:ethnology; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D014944:World Health Organization