Lived experiences of people with mobility-related disability using assistive devices

Assistive devices (ADs) are an essential component for people with disability to achieve functional independence and improved quality of life. The current study explored lived experiences of adults with mobility related disability using ADs, with reference to access to ADs, facilitators and barriers in access, use and adaptation of devices and whether any changes experienced after use of ADs.

Data were collected through interviews using narrative inquiry approach with 25 individuals having mobility related disabilities and who had experience of using one or more ADs for minimum 12 months. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis procedure.

The analysis resulted in four main themes. The first theme of "access to ADs" revealed apathy of and disappointment towards public health service providers. The second theme "life with ADs" described personal and social adaptation of ADs. Third important theme was "barriers to use of ADs" which brought out physical barriers in public places, lack of home modification, and inaccessible built environment. Major concern was economic dependence, out of pocket expenditure and lack of services for maintenance and upgradation of ADs. The last theme "achieving a better life" described a sense of achievement with ease of mobility, relief of agony and gaining independence.

In spite of the challenging experiences of disability, usage of ADs has increased social participation, independence and self-esteem. These major components helped participants to achieve "normalcy" in life.Implications for rehabilitationEarly identification of need of AD is necessary to support disabled individualAvailability, accessibility and affordability of appropriate devices at public health centres will improve rehabilitationRaising awareness and removing stigma about ADs will improve utilization of rehabilitative servicesTimely use and use of appropriate devices are necessary to improve quality of lifeUpgradation and maintenance of devices is a major concern which need to be linked with rehabilitation service provision.