Rehabilitation following spinal cord injury: The facilitatory impact of the rural social setting
Amanda E Young
Rehabilitation Research and Training Unit, School of Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora; Centre for Rural Health, Monash University, Clayton VIC
Gregory C Murphy
Rehabilitation Research and Training Unit, School of Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora VIC
Roger P Strasser
Monash University Centre for Rural Health, Monash University, Clayton VIC
PP: 231 - 244
Abstract
While recent discussions have tended to focus on the negative health consequences associated with living in rural areas, there is evidence to suggest that there are factors associated with rural areas that compensate for the difficulties encountered.
This article details positives associated with the rural social environment as encountered by 47 agricultural industry workers who suffered a spinal cord injury and returned to a community setting. Results indicate that there are a number of factors related to the rural social environment that can facilitate a positive rehabilitation experience and assist individuals to make rehabilitation gains. These include a culture of involvement and support, the attitudes of health-service providers and the willingness of employers to make a place for those with a limitation.
With an understanding of the benefits rural residents may derive from their social setting, people planning health and rehabilitation services can better develop strategies for the optimal use of resources and thus improve the health of country residents.
Keywords
rural, community, social-support, rehabilitation, health-service-delivery, agricultural
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