'The moment I leave my home - there will be massive challenges': experiences of living with a spinal cord injury in Botswana

作者：Lofvenmark Inka^*; Norrbrink Cecilia; Wikmar Lena Nilsson; Lofgren Monika

来源：Disability and Rehabilitation, 2016, 38(15): 1483-1492.

DOI：10.3109/09638288.2015.1106596

• Attitudes
• Botswana
• experiences
• faith
• low-and middle-income countries
• patient perspective
• spinal cord injury

Background: When suffering a spinal cord injury (SCI), the patient and family face numerous challenges regardless of socio-economic level. The stigmatisation of persons with disabilities has been reported, however, reports from Southern Africa are largely lacking. Purpose: To explore the experiences of living with a traumatic SCI in Botswana concerning perceived attitudes, obstacles and challenges. Method: A qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews was conducted. Thirteen community-dwelling persons who have lived with an SCI for at least two years participated. Results: A theoretical model was formed that illustrate the associations between the core category, Self, and the categories Relationships and Society. The model illustrates that personal resources, including a strong identity and a positive attitude, are crucial to the experience of inclusion in the community. A supportive family, a source of income, and faith were strong facilitators, while inaccessibility and devaluing attitudes were barriers. Having a disability led to increased risk of poverty and social exclusion. Conclusion: This study emphasised the importance of personal resources, family support, and improved accessibility to facilitate inclusion in the society. Informants requested legislation to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities to be respected, with the aim of moving towards an equal accessible society.

• 出版日期2016