Quality of Life Grants Spotlight: Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center created a special grants category (COVID-19: Addressing Social Isolation) for non-profit organizations to address social isolation by providing programs and projects to support the physical and mental health of people living with paralysis.
COVID-19 redefined how people interact with each other. Social isolation regulations affected the mental and physical well-being of many people including those living with paralysis. Through the use of virtual meetings, classes, and education, people were able to remain connected with each other.
Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare recognized the need to create a program for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their caregivers. But unfortunately, the social isolation rules meant people with SCI couldn't access vital social and support services they depended on to remain connected with others.
People living with SCI are at a higher risk for COVID-19 infection because they are often immunosuppressed or have pneumonia, asthma, or diabetes. Furthermore, those with SCI can struggle with depression, anxiety, or loneliness as they remain isolated due to the threat of catching COVID-19.
With a $45,000 COVID-19 grant from the Reeve Foundation, Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare created the Adaptive Recreation Program. The Adaptive Recreation Program aims to provide ways for people with SCI to engage with others through Assistive Technology (AT) support. The AT support helps improve the quality of life while decreasing feelings of social isolation. Casa Colina Hospital implemented their AT model into its standard of care to achieve its goal. The AT model integration means immediate tele-support and remote peer services are available.
Initially, 47 people enrolled in the program. But, because the workshops were recorded, participants can watch any of the sessions at their convenience. In addition, any equipment provided by Casa Colina's AT lab is used by approximately 100 people.
The Adaptive Recreation Program virtually links individuals with SCI to interest groups and hobbies, intending to create connections and a sense of community. The program allows people with SCI to engage in adaptive hobbies like art, gardening, gaming, language, fitness, or cooking classes. Participants can also enjoy book or film clubs. Other interests are also explored based on interests identified by individuals. One participant said, "I particularly liked the chance for social interaction with others "in the same boat" and with experts having an understanding of and knowledge about both the challenges of and possibilities for people living with SCI."
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Casa Colina Hospital remains dedicated to engaging and retaining those with SCI in the Adaptive Recreation Program. From January to May 2022, they offered 30 one-hour workshops on various topics based on participants' interests. A few examples of the workshops provided are:
- Open mic night
- Yoga
- Aerobics/Cardio
- Educational sessions (bowel and bladder)
- Crafting
- Meditation
- Trivia night
- Lectures focused on environmental, community, or individual concerns
The workshops are led by people who are professionals in their fields. A person involved in the program enjoys the social component. One participant said, "What I enjoyed about the workshops was the ability to engage with the presenter and the participants. This format expanded the experience of the workshop. We were able to get other people's views, ideas, and examples. It was really cool!"
Another said, "I think people with spinal cord injuries are always happy to meet other SCI members…Overall it was enjoyable. It felt like the classes that were led by experts were the best. (refers to Hal Hargrave and his coworker for the fitness class)
One of the many lessons people learned during the pandemic, which continues after social isolation rules are relaxed or canceled, is the convenience of virtual platforms. Casa Colina Hospital's Adaptive Recreation Program was created because of COVID-19. The communities, connections, and friendships made continue to thrive.
To learn more about the Reeve Foundation’s Quality of Life Grants Program, please see: www.ChristopherReeve.org/QOL.
Christina Sisti, DPS, MPH, MS is a bioethicist and health care policy advocate. She works to create awareness and improve health care policy for those with long-term health issues.