Six-year trajectories of rehabilitation service utilization in aging Canadians with chronic musculoskeletal disorders: a population-based, longitudinal investigation to improve equitable access to rehabilitation

Year:

2024

Applicant:

Wong, Jessica

Institution:

Western University

Email:

jessica.wong@uwo.ca

Project ID:

2401022

Approved Project Status:

Active

Project Summary

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, such as back pain and arthritis, often lead to disability and needs for rehabilitation services in aging adults. However, many aging adults with MSK conditions do not receive these services when needed due to challenges with accessing care, leading to unmet needs. This can present as low rates of use for rehabilitation services in aging adults. Unmet needs for rehabilitation negatively impact health and well-being. We need to better understand the long-term patterns of rehabilitation service use in this aging population. Using national survey data, our research will examine long-term patterns (termed ‘trajectories’) of rehabilitation service use in aging Canadians with MSK conditions. We will examine the characteristics of aging adults linked to different trajectories, and whether patterns differ by sex, gender, and age. Findings will guide strategies to remove barriers to accessing rehabilitation and improve delivery of services for aging Canadians.