Factors affecting the adjustment to disability for new immigrants

Factors such as self-esteem, social support, and perceived social discrimination are associated with the acceptance of disability. A new immigrant may face unique barriers to health care, including cultural differences between the patient and provider, language/communication issues, and discrimination. However, little research is available that identifies barriers specific to new immigrants relating to disability. This is an exploratory descriptive pilot study using a phenomenological approach. The investigator interviewed two "new" immigrants with an acquired disability. A "new" immigrant is defined as an individual who was born outside of the United States, whose parents were born outside of the United States, and who relocated across international borders to live in this country. The participants reported on perceived barriers to the adjustment to a disability. Strategies to consider in the care of the immigrant patient are described.