Activity Patterns after Spinal Cord Injury: Relationship to Gender and Race

The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship of gender and race with activity patterns after spinal cord injury (SCI). Data were obtained from 597 participants with SCI, all of whose injuries occurred at least 2 years prior to the study. Responses were compared between men and women, and between white and minority participants. With the exception of women spending more hours out of bed than men, gender differences related more to types of activities performed rather than overall activity level. Whites reported a higher average daily sitting tolerance and a greater frequency of weekly outings, whereas minority participants reported spending more time exercising. Whites were more likely to participate in recreational and business organizations, as well as organizations for persons with disabilities. In contrast, minority participants were more likely to belong to church organizations. Rehabilitation professionals may be better able to serve their clients if they fully understand the extent to which and the manner in which gender and race differences affect community reintegration after SCI.