Problems of Veterans Spinal Cord Injured after Age 55: Nursing Implications

Abstract

During the past 24 months. 35 veterans 55 years of age or older with new spinal cord injuries have been admitted to the Spinal Cord Injury Service at the Veterans Administration Edward Hines, Jr, Hospital, Hines, III. Treatment and rehabilitation of these elderly spinal cord-injured (SCI) veterans present problems different from those of younger veterans. Case presentations identify problems related to older veterans with new spinal cord injuries. Implications for nurses are identified. Recommendations are made concerning the need to develop collaborative relationships within the hospital and liaison relationships with nurses in community agencies to meet the needs of this population.