The experience of being disabled and obese

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Obesity Research
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Growing prevalence of obesity and disability.
• Limited understanding of the intersectional experiences of individuals with both conditions.
• Need for research on environmental and technological support for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of disabled and severely obese individuals.
• To investigate challenges in home and community environments.
• To examine the provision and use of assistive technologies.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study design.
• In-depth interviews with six participants.
• Grounded theory approach.

Main Results:

• Home and community environments often inadequate for body size.
• Difficulties accessing and using National Health Service (NHS) services.
• Negative staff attitudes and suboptimal assistive devices/housing adaptations reported.

Conclusions:

• Obesity exacerbates disability challenges, increasing care needs and assistive device costs.
• Professional training is needed to ensure appropriate and cost-effective support.
• Environments and services require adaptation for this demographic.