Longitudinal 10-Year Trajectory Models of Life Satisfaction in Black Individuals with TBI: A Model Systems Study

This study examined: (a) longitudinal trajectories of life satisfaction over the 10 years after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a group of Black individuals, and (b) demographic and injury-related predictors of those trajectories. A sample of 2,114 Black individuals from the TBI Model Systems (TBIMS) National Database was included who had completed the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) at one or more follow-up time points (1, 2, 5, and/or 10 years after TBI). Life satisfaction increased over time, with higher life satisfaction trajectories for Black individuals who had private health insurance and had experienced a nonviolent cause of injury. Insurance type and cause of injury are important predictors of life satisfaction trajectories for Black individuals with TBI. The results highlight the importance of understanding risk factors for Black individuals and developing tailored interventions on both individual and systems levels to promote effective rehabilitation and reduce health disparities in this group.