Department of Physiotherapy

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Browsing by Subject "Accessibility"

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    The challenges experienced by persons with physical disabilities who live in Chifubu Township in Zambia.
    (University of the Western Cape, 2010) Sakala, Mary Seliya; Rhoda, Anthea
    People with physical disability experience various challenges which include physical, social and attitudinal challenges. These challenges which limit the inclusion of persons with physical disabilities in society are a result of barriers and the physical impairment itself. These factors also cause activity limitations and participation restrictions. Despite the United Nations declaration of 1993 for equalization of opportunities for people with disabilities, not much has changed. It is with this background that the researcher aimed to explore the challenges experienced by people with physical disabilities living in a low cost location of Zambia. Qualitative research methods were employed using a phenomenological approach to gain an in-depth insight of these challenges from participants' Iived experiences. Twenty participants were purposively selected for three focus group discussions, and eight of the twenty participants took part in the in depth interviews. The data was organised and analysed using the thematic method. Results of the study showed that participants in this study were challenged with architectural barriers due to designs, they lacked formal education, specialised skills, and most of them were unemployed and financially dependent on others. The negative attitudes of families, service providers, and the community in general resulted in discrimination and limited the participation and involvement of people with disabilities in the mainstream activities. The cultural beliefs of the participants in the research influence the manner in which society perceives persons with disability and treat them. Limited access to information about HIV/AIDS and the myths about the cure of the pandemic makes people with disabilities more vulnerable and at risk of being infected. The information regarding challenges experienced by people with disabilities gained in the study could be used by the policy makers for implementation of the UN declaration of equalization of opportunities for people with disabilities.
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    The challenges experienced by persons with physical disabilities who live in Chifubu Township in Zambia.
    (University of the Western Cape, 2010) Sakala, Mary Seliya; Rhoda, Anthea
    People with physical disability experience various challenges which include physical, social and attitudinal challenges. These challenges which limit the inclusion of persons with physical disabilities in society are a result of barriers and the physical impairment itself. These factors also cause activity limitations and participation restrictions. Despite the United Nations declaration of 1993 for equalization of opportunities for people with disabilities, not much has changed. It is with this background that the researcher aimed to explore the challenges experienced by people with physical disabilities living in a low cost location of Zambia. Qualitative research methods were employed using a henomenological approach to gain an in-depth insight of these challenges from participants' Iived experiences. Twenty participants were purposively selected for three focus group discussions, and eight of the twenty participants took part in the in depth interviews. The data was organised and analysed using the thematic method. Results of the study showed that participants in this study were challenged with architectural barriers due to designs, they lacked formal education, specialised skills, and most of them were unemployed and financially dependent on others. The negative attitudes of families, service providers, and the community in general resulted in discrimination and limited the participation and involvement of people with disabilities in the mainstream activities. The cultural beliefs of the participants in the research influence the manner in which society perceives persons with disability and treat them. Limited access to information about HIV/AIDS and the myths about the cure of the pandemic makes people with disabilities more venerable and at risk of being infected. The information regarding challenges experienced by people with disabilities gained in the study could be used by the policy makers for implementation of the UN declaration of equalisation of opportunities for people with disabilities.
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    The modular socket system in a rural setting in Indonesia
    (Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2018) Giesberts, Bob; Ennion, Liezel; Hjelmstrom, Olle
    Background: Prosthetic services are inaccessible to people living in rural areas. Systems like the modular socket system have the potential to be fabricated outside of the prosthetic workshop. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the patient's performance and satisfaction with the use of the modular socket system, and the technical feasibility of its implementation in a rural setting. Study design: A quantitative longitudinal descriptive study design was followed. Methods: A total of 15 persons with a lower limb amputation were fitted with the modular socket system and followed over 4-6 months. Performance was measured using a 2-min walk test, 10-m walk test and mobility and function questionnaire. Satisfaction was measured by the Socket Fit Comfort Score, Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire and EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels. Notes on technical feasibility were taken at the moment of fitting ( t0), at 1-3 months post fitting ( t1) and at the end evaluation at 4-6 months post fitting ( t2). Results: Performance did not change between t0 and t2. The comfort of the socket fit reduced between t0 and t2. Satisfaction with prosthesis and general health status stayed constant over time. The average fitting-time for the modular socket system was 6.4 h. Conclusion: The modular socket system can be considered a useful alternative for use in rural settings. Clinical relevance The use of the modular socket system is feasible and can improve accessibility to prosthetic technology in rural areas. Experienced prosthetic users were satisfied with the performance and the device. The shorter manufacturing time and use of only hand-held tools makes it an ideal alternative for use in remote and rural settings.