Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies

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Browsing Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies by Subject "Adjustment (Psychology) -- Namibia"

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    Lived experiences of persons with acquired physical disability living in Windhoek, Namibia
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2022-04) Kaseke, Tatenda Hazel; Visagie, Surona; Kahonde, Callista K.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Centre for Rehabilitation Studies.
    ENGLISH SUMMARY: Background: Acquiring a physical disability can be life changing. Life experiences change, and adjustments must be made. Although there are many studies done in other countries on the lived experiences of persons with disabilities following acquired physical disability, more insights are needed to understand the lived experiences of people with acquired physical disabilities in Windhoek, Namibia. Study aim: To explore and describe the lived experiences of persons with acquired physical disability living in Windhoek, Namibia. Method: A qualitative, phenomenological design that was explorative in nature was used in this study. A purposive sampling method was used to identify participants. A pilot study was done to check for and resolve any challenges and to estimate time needed for each interview. Data were collected using semi structured, face to face, individual interviews with a sample of nine participants. The interviews were recorded, and the recordings were transcribed verbatim. The transcriptions were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Findings: Six themes were identified; i) “All my life, it’s all about adapting”. Participants were left with permanent impairments which forced them to change the way they interact with the environment. They had to adapt to resume the activities important to them. ii) “I am no different to them”. Participants were not seen as any less of a person because of the disability by their friends and family. iii) “I leave everything in my God’s hand”. Participants indicated they do not worry too much if they face challenges as God is in control. iv) We all need money. Participants agreed that financial stability is important. v) Moving about in the community. Being able to move from one point to the other and being able to get into places they want was very important to participants. vi) Health care access. Participants received the necessary health care and rehabilitation. Conclusion: The participants met with some challenges, but they identified strategies to overcome them to live a fulfilling life. The onus for change was on the individuals with acquired physical disabilities themselves, no environmental or societal inclusive strategies were in place. Recommendations were identified and made to different stakeholders including persons with acquired disabilities, community members, rehabilitation professionals, decision makers, taxi drivers and future researchers.