Type Of Disability Research Articles

Socio-Environmental Accessibility in Inclusive Schools in Buea Municipality by Students with Special Needs

Aim: The study sought to investigate socio-environmental accessibility in inclusive schools in Buea Municipality, Cameroon, emphasizing students with special needs. To accomplish this, the percentage of inclusive schools that fulfill accessibility requirements for students with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, the accessibility and use of assistive technology and learning resources tailored to diverse students' needs, and the degree of preparation and assurance of educators in applying inclusive teaching methods were investigated. Methods: Four major theories were employed to support the research. This study was conducted in four distinct inclusive schools in the Buea Municipality. A random sampling procedure was utilized to recruit a sample of 80 students with various types of disabilities, 20 from each school. A mixed-methods research design was used, combining quantitative and qualitative data. Data was collected through a questionnaire and interview guides and expressed using percentages and frequencies. Results: The study found that most respondents recognized that inclusive schools in the Buea Municipality of Cameroon meet accessibility requirements for students with disabilities. Many interviewees stated that inclusive schools in Buea Municipality have suitable assistive technology and learning tools. Also, respondents agreed that inclusive schools in Buea Municipality lacked suitable assistive technology and learning tools. Respondents agreed that educators' preparation and assurance using inclusive teaching approaches were appropriate. Other respondents believed that educators' preparation and confidence in utilizing inclusive teaching approaches were inadequate. Conclusion: Well-structured professional development activities greatly improve instructors’ readiness to apply inclusive practices, improving student engagement and learning results. Recommendation: Immediate legislative changes and investments in school infrastructure is needed to ensure that all students can thrive in an inclusive learning environment. Keywords: Accessibility, socio-environmental accessibility, assistive devices, inclusive schools, special needs

The Role of Sports Management in Promoting the Participation of Individuals with Disabilities in School Sports Activities

This study seeks to examine the function of sports administrations in facilitating the involvement of individuals with disabilities in school sports activities, emphasizing the aspects that affect the establishment of a complete and suitable environment for this demographic. Data were gathered via a questionnaire administered to 82 principals of schools for individuals with disabilities, focusing on the sports programs offered, required adaptations to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities, students' reactions to these activities, and variables influencing their participation, including gender, age group, and type of disability. The findings indicated that sports administrators foster a conducive atmosphere, as students with disabilities exhibited a favorable inclination to engage in sports activities, with variations in participation levels noted according to disability type and age group. Research indicates that sports policies and procedures implemented in schools enhance the involvement of individuals with disabilities; yet, certain areas require enhancement, particularly in providing further adjustments to accommodate students' requirements. The statistical study revealed a favorable and statistically significant correlation between the function of sports administrations and the enhancement of participation among individuals with disabilities in sports activities. This research elucidates the significant role of sports administrations in facilitating equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities within the sports domain, and offers recommendations to enhance these opportunities and foster the inclusive participation of this demographic in school sports activities.

Individuals with disabilities in grassroots football clubs: volunteering and social capital

Abstract Volunteering might be a leisure activity that supports the development of social capital of individuals with disabilities in organized sports. This study investigates the link between having a disability (i.e., physical, mental, or both), the likelihood and extent of volunteering, and the level of social capital in grassroots football clubs. We further examine a moderating effect of volunteering hours on the relationship between having a disability and social capital. Drawing on leisure constraints theory, individuals with disabilities are assumed to have a lower probability to volunteer than able-bodied individuals. Also, we hypothesize that individuals with disabilities perceive their social capital as lower than able-bodied individuals. Based on the motivational model, we assume that sport volunteers with disabilities perceive a higher social capital if they volunteer more hours. Data were collected via an online survey in seven European countries and targeted at adult volunteers and members in football clubs (n = 16,989 volunteers). Results of regressions show that having a physical disability is significantly negatively associated with the probability to volunteer in a football club. Further, having either a physical or mental disability is significantly negatively related to an individuals’ social capital level. The moderation analyses indicate that volunteers having both types of disabilities perceive a higher social capital if they volunteer more hours per month.

Voces de madres juarenses: la experiencia de maternar a un hijo o hija con discapacidad

Mothers of sons and daughters with disabilities usually invest time, money, physical and mental energy, in addition to managing care and attention to basic needs. Although these activities are usually vital, mothers are often not recognized as people who also need care, leading them to live alone, facing impacts and challenges in various areas of their lives. Through qualitative research, sought to know: what and how have the experiences of mothering a son or daughter with some type of disability, physical limitation, condition or mental problem been in Ciudad Juárez? For this, three open interviews were carried out, the information obtained was analyzed from the thematic analysis approach. The results are presented in 5 categories to show the voices of mothers of sons and daughters with disabilities about: 1) the beginning of the experience of mothering in front medical violence, 2) loneliness, isolation and their impacts on mothers, 3) emotions and family dynamics in front of disability, 4) mothering in the presence and absence of support networks and 5) guides and care criteria proposed by and for mothers of sons and daughters with disabilities. It is concluded that loneliness and isolation are main factors for experiencing impacts and effects in various areas of life of mothers, while providing information, awareness and support on disability and mothering are care guides in the voices of mothers.

Evaluating Inclusivity and Fairness of AI Recruitment Tools for Hiring People with Disabilities in the United Arab Emirates(UAE)

IntroductionThis research aims to explore the effectiveness and inclusivity of AI-powered recruitment tools in hiring people with disabilities within the United Arab Emirates. Such is the situation where AI integration into the arena of recruitment is increasingly rapid, while there are vital issues on the side of bias, accessibility, and fairness for applicants of diverse needs. MethodsThis study was a mixed-methods approach, examining sentiment analysis, emotion detection, and HR analytics of feedback from applicants with a disability, 415 in total. The research focused on scores referring to sentiment, the progression rate, and the outcome of the final hiring. ResultsThe sentiment score varied significantly across disability types (p-value <0.05). The applicants with cognitive disability expressed the highest sentiment sore while applicants with hearing impairment had the lowest, which indicated the varying adaptability of AI. The emotion analysis depicted a mix of positive and negative emotions. A few applicants liked technology and have trust in it, while others report fear. Clearly, the applicants, both disabled and non-disabled did not differ in their rate of progression (p-value >0.05), hence never indicating any significant difference within the initial steps of the process. The final hiring stage showed significant differences in results with (p-value <0.05), where the proportionate number of disabled applicants was recorded to be lower than that of non-disabled applicants

Age-Stratified Risk of Severe COVID-19 for People With Disabilities in Korea: Nationwide Study Considering Disability Type

Age-Stratified Risk of Severe COVID-19 for People With Disabilities in Korea: Nationwide Study Considering Disability Type

DISABILITY STATUS OF ASIAN OLDER ADULTS IN THE UNITED STATES: FINDINGS FROM THE 2017–2021 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY

Abstract Little information is available on the disability status of the diverse Asian population in the United States (U.S.). In this study we estimate the prevalence of six types of disability in older adults for six major Asian subgroups using the recently released data from the 2017-2021 American Community Survey. The survey contains a sample of 11,737 Vietnamese; 32,388 Chinese; 24,625 Filipino; 12,125 Japanese; 10,231 Koreans; 16,759 Indians; and 2,412,999 non-Hispanic Whites. All analyses use survey weights for population estimates and the jackknife method for standard errors. We find higher prevalence of disability in independent living for Vietnamese, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, and Indian compared to non-Hispanic White. For self-care disability, Vietnamese, Chinese, Filipino and Indian have higher prevalence. Cognitive disability is more prevalent in Vietnamese, Filipino, and Japanese. Only Vietnamese older adults have higher prevalence of mobility disability and vision disability. Surprisingly, all Asian subgroups in the study have lower prevalence of hearing disability than the non-Hispanic White group. Overall, the results show Vietnamese older adults have the worst disability profile, whereas Korean older adults have the best profile. Future research is needed to understand the role of fortitude in addressing disability status, especially in the areas of independent living, self-care, and cognition, which are more prevalent in most Asian groups.

The Amount of Family Awareness Towards Sexual Education for Their Adolescent Children with Disabilities in Light of Certain Variables

The study sought to determine the amount of family awareness of sexual education for their adolescent children with disabilities, as well as the differences in family awareness of sexual education for their adolescent children with disabilities caused by gender, type of disability in the family, and educational qualification. The descriptive approach was used since it was appropriate for the study's aims, and the study sample included (32) guardians, 23 mothers, and 9 fathers. The sample was intentionally selected from special education centers in the public and private sectors affiliated with the Ministry of Education in Zarqa Governorate. A scale measuring family awareness towards sexual education for adolescents with disabilities was developed. The validity and reliability of the scale were verified, and it consisted of 21 items. The results of the study showed that the amount of family awareness regarding sexual education for their adolescent children with disabilities was moderate. The findings also indicated no statistically significant differences in the level of family awareness concerning sexual education for their adolescent children with disabilities based on the variables of gender, type of disability within the family, or educational qualification. The study recommends organizing educational seminars and workshops led by specialists to support families on the topic of sexual education and emphasizing the role of media in raising societal awareness about this subject.

Accessibility of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library for Students with Disabilities: An Evaluation

Objective. This research aims to identify the accessibility of UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library for users with disabilities to uncover the gap between the standard of library services for people with disabilities and the condition of the library to support an accessible environment. Methods. This research applies qualitative methods to explore the accessibility of library services for users with disabilities using the IFLA checklist, a standard for providing library services for people with disabilities consisting of 3 main areas; physical access, media format, and service and communication. Results. UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library has met the most of criteria for providing services for users with disabilities. Physical access covering the area outside the library, entry to the library and access to library collections and services, is largely in accordance with the standard. However, the absence of an elevator prevents users with wheelchairs from accessing to upper floor in which the library collections are stored which means that access to library collections is hindered. To address this problem, the library provides the Difable Corner, a department for users of all types of disabilities. The research also found that for library collections, the library provides more for the blind, while for the deaf it is still not maximized. Therefore, the library, in collaboration with the Center for Disabilities Service provides volunteers to students for whom inclusion requirements have not yet been met. Conclusion. Being under the parent institution that promotes inclusive value requires UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library to provide an inclusive environment that welcomes all users regardless of their abilities. The library has made some effort to fulfill the standards for providing a library for the disabled. The gap between ideal standards and real conditions in the library related to accessibility for the disabled can be taken into consideration to improve inclusive-based library services.

Employment outcomes among clients with stroke utilizing public vocational rehabilitation services in the United States.

To examine the correlations between individual characteristics among clients with stroke within public vocational rehabilitation (VR) and the employment outcome, as well as the utilization of VR services and their employment outcomes after VR services. Observational cohort study SETTING: Nationwide vocational rehabilitation data from the Rehabilitation Service Administration Case Service Report (RSA-911) for fiscal year 2022. Individuals with stroke as primary cause of disability MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: employment status and VR service types RESULTS: Of those with stroke who received VR services (n = 1,793), 653 (36.4%) achieved a competitive employment outcome. African American clients were less likely to be competitively employed at closure than White clients, OR = .72, 95% CIs [0.56, 0.92]. Clients whose primary disability was auditory or communicative disabilities were more likely to be competitively employed at closure, OR = 2.25, 95% CIs [1.22, 4.17]. Regarding VR services, receiving distinct types of VR services significantly was associated with the competitive employment outcome for clients. Clients who received short-term job support services were 6.36 times more likely to be competitively employed at closure than those who did not receive the service, OR = 6.36, 95% CIs [4.28, 9.46]. Our results found that race, types of primary disability, level of education, receipt of SSI/SSDI, and the length of the VR services were associated with obtaining or regaining employment among clients with stroke who received public VR services. In terms of VR service patterns, job support services, job placement assistance, rehabilitation technology supports, maintenance services, other services, and VR counseling and guidance were associated with competitive employment outcomes among individuals with stroke.

Learning Disabilities and the Adult Learner

ABSTRACTApproximately one‐quarter of the adult population self‐reports having one or more disabilities. Expanding adult and continuing education access for individuals with disabilities is an important dimension of striving to make our programs more inclusive. Thus, it is crucial that adult and continuing educators have a basic understanding of the types of disability that relate most directly to adult learning. This article reviews key definitions, models of disability, and legal requirements related to adult disability. It also takes a more focused look at the literature on several types of disabilities, along with approaches that have been taken over time to develop the learning skills and strategies of individuals with these disabilities and restructure learning environments to make them more accessible. This information should be considered a starting point. Making needed changes will require continuing commitment from teachers, trainers, and program administrators.

Demographic Differences and Associations Between Body Image and Quality of Life Among Japanese Adolescents with Congenital Physical Disabilities.

This study aimed to examine the levels, demographic differences, and associations between body image (BI) and quality of life (QOL) among Japanese adolescents with congenital physical disabilities. A self-report questionnaire was administered to 107 Japanese adolescents with congenital physical disabilities, which included demographic variables, the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire, and the Japanese version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version. Data were analyzed using Cronbach's α coefficient, descriptive statistics, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The mean BI score was 2.96 ± 0.39. The domain-specific mean scores were as follows: health evaluation (3.49 ± 0.67), health orientation (3.11 ± 0.57), fitness evaluation (3.03 ± 0.93), fitness orientation (3.02 ± 0.70), appearance orientation (2.70 ± 0.61), and appearance evaluation (2.61 ± 0.61). The mean QOL score was 3.51 ± 0.50. The domain-specific mean scores were as follows: social relationships (3.61 ± 0.91), environment (3.60 ± 0.59), physical (3.46 ± 0.55), and psychological (3.42 ± 0.63). BI significantly varied by gender, school level, type of disability, and activities of daily living (ADLs), while QOL varied by school level and ADLs. All BI domains, except appearance orientation (investments for enhancing appearance), were positively correlated with QOL. Our findings suggest that school level and ADLs are key predictors of both BI and QOL among Japanese adolescents with congenital physical disabilities and that physical-fitness- and health-related BI are closely associated with QOL.

The Impact of Assistive Technologies in Enhancing English Learning Outcomes for Students with Disabilities: A Meta-Narrative Analysis

Integrating assistive technologies in education is crucial for enhancing English learning outcomes among students with disabilities. This meta-narrative analysis aims to synthesize existing research on the impact of assistive technologies in improving English language skills in this population. We conducted a comprehensive search across databases, including Taylor and Francis and Scopus, identifying relevant studies published from 2020 to 2023. Eleven peer-reviewed articles met the inclusion criteria, focusing on empirical studies that evaluated tools such as EducaPlay, Rosetta Stone, PECS, AR applications, inclusive videos, LEA tools, VAS and multimedia tools, web-based drill programs, the AMALL application, and various assistive technologies like JAWS, MELDICT, OCR scanners, and Braille devices. Data collection involved extracting critical information on the effectiveness of the learning tools, types of disabilities, and educational outcomes related to language skills in using technology learning tools to study the English language for disabled students. The analysis revealed significant improvements in vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing skills, demonstrating the positive impact of assistive technologies on English learning. The findings suggest that these technologies enhance engagement and motivation, offering personalized support that addresses individual needs. The discussion highlights the variability in effectiveness across different technologies and the importance of proper implementation and training for educators.

Comparative Effectiveness of Modified Manual and Powered Toothbrushing Interventions in Individuals with Disabilities: A Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing Gingival Health

ABSTRACT Background: Individuals with disabilities face unique challenges in maintaining optimal oral health due to physical, cognitive, and sensory impairments. Gingivitis is a common oral health problem in this population, necessitating effective interventions tailored to their specific needs. Methods: Participants (n = 162) aged 18–65 years, diagnosed with gingivitis and varying disabilities, were recruited. They were randomly assigned to the modified manual toothbrush group or the powered toothbrush group. The interventions included comprehensive training programs that addressed the specific needs of each group. Gingival index and plaque index scores were recorded at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Patient-reported outcomes, including satisfaction, comfort, and ease of use, were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed, including t-tests, Chi-square tests, and subgroup analyses based on disability types. Results: Baseline characteristics did not demonstrate significant differences between groups. Over 12 weeks, both groups showed a significant reduction in gingival and plaque index scores (P < 0.001). The powered toothbrush group exhibited a slightly greater reduction in gingival inflammation compared to the manual toothbrush group (P = 0.03). Patient-reported results favored the powered toothbrush group in satisfaction (P = 0.02) and ease of use (P = 0.04). Comfort levels did not show significant differences (P = 0.11). Conclusions: This randomized controlled trial provides evidence supporting the effectiveness of modified manual and powered toothbrushing interventions in reducing gingival inflammation among people with disabilities diagnosed with gingivitis.

12 Tips for Including Disability Awareness within Undergraduate Medical Education Curricula

Disability is extremely common, and there is a need for high quality medical school curricula on working with persons with disabilities. The goal of disability training is to provide the proper knowledge and skills to address the unique needs of persons with disability (PWD), mitigate health disparities, and help shape more compassionate and informed physicians. This article presents 12 tips to incorporate disability training into undergraduate medical education. These tips emphasize the inclusion of PWD in all stages of the curriculum, interprofessional education, experiential learning, and exposure to a range of disability types. By leveraging these tips, educators will be able to create effective learning opportunities and improve the future healthcare of PWD.

Arborização urbana não planejada como barreira à acessibilidade

Urban afforestation, when well planned, brings several benefits to cities and citizens. However, when poorly planned, it can generate several economic and socio-environmental problems, such as those that hinder and/or limit people's mobility and access to various public facilities. In this sense, the objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of urban trees from the perspective of accessibility on the sidewalks of Avenida Lomanto Júnior, Jequié - BA, with NBR 9050/2020 being used as a parameter to evaluate the conditions of this road. Although a good part of this Avenue meets the general dimensions required, several nonconformities were observed regarding the width of the free lanes, signaling, flooring and the presence of obstacles. In several stretches, it was possible to observe the presence of trees that limit or prevent the movement of people with some type of disability or reduced mobility. Thus, considering mobility as a constitutional right, the elaboration of a project and the implementation of actions that guarantee citizenship and accessibility to all people, without any kind of distinction, are essential.

A meta-review of literature reviews of disability, travel and inequalities

IntroductionThe importance of travel for mental and physical health and the adverse impacts of transport on health are increasingly recognised in policy and practice, but less attention is paid to the effects of disability on the ability to travel. MethodsWe searched the TRID database on June 1, 2023, using abstract keywords ‘disability’ or ‘disabilities’. We used the index term ‘literature reviews’ in 'all publications' from 2019 to 2023 inclusive. We also searched the journal Transport Reviews, finding six reviews, and were informed of two additional reviews. We repeated the search in July 2024, using Google Scholar. Forty-three unique recent reviews examined travellers with physical or cognitive disabilities; 24 met our inclusion criteria and underwent quality appraisal. ResultsTravel behaviour differs between transport users with and without disabilities. Those with disabilities make 10–30% fewer trips. They tend to use different transport modes and travel to nearer destinations but their journeys often take more time, are more complex, and can cost more. Individuals with disabilities are less able to travel both locally and regionally. This reduces independence, increases unemployment, and leads to missed medical appointments. Travel barriers vary with type and severity of disability, socioeconomic status, and transport infrastructure quality. People with disabilities often use familiar routes for comfort. Systemic obstacles include public transport unreliability; long waiting times; maintenance issues (e.g. pavement [sidewalk] maintenance, vehicle accessibility equipment); accessibility and affordability; and poor access to technology and information. Training for people with disabilities and transport staff is beneficial. ConclusionsThe United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities highlights the importance of transport to help people with disabilities access the same services, goods, and people as other people. Taking a universal design approach benefits everyone. Barriers can be overcome with accessibility policies integral to the transport planning process.

The current physical activity in persons with disability in Qatar: a cross-sectional study.

The primary objective of this study was to measure and quantify the current level of physical activity among persons with disability in Qatar. The secondary objective was to assess and analyze the duration of sedentary behavior among individuals with disability in Qatar. This was a cross-sectional epidemiological study of persons with disability living in Qatar. The study period was from October 2020 to December 2021. 96 persons with disabilities participated in this study. They included individuals with amputations, spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and other developmental impairments. Of the respondents, 56% were male and 64% were Qataris. Of the respondents, 61.5%said that they felt psychologically and emotionally better when engaging in physical activity, and this difference was statistically significant. 71% of all those who reported feeling physically good after sport, 65% said that they enjoyed the social aspects of sports. This corroborates the beneficial effects of exercise, sports, and physical activity in persons with all types of disabilities. There was a definite impact on the emotional and physical well-being of those who participated in the physical activities. There was less participation in team activities and two-thirds preferred to exercise alone. However, their numbers were not statistically significant because of low enrollment in the study.

Status in using wearable devices as surveillance tools in public health research among people with disabilities: preliminary analysis of 2017 BRFSS

Purpose: The study aims to examine the association between disability status and willingness to share wearable devices and mobile apps data for public health research using the 2017 Behavioral risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) through secondary data analysis. Materials and Methods: Current wearable device and mobile apps users at the time of the 2017 BRFSS survey administration from eight states were included in the analysis. Descriptive, chi-square analysis, and multivariable logistic regressions were performed to examine the associations. Subsample analyses were also conducted for individuals with disabilities and different types of disability, including visual impairments, hearing impairments, cognitive disability, independent living disability, self-care disability, and mobility disability on their willingness to share wearable device and mobile app data. Results: Among the 1575 wearable device and mobile app users, 17.8% (95% CI [14.6, 22.0]) were participants with disabilities. Less than half of the participants (43.8%, 95% CI [38.0, 50.0]) were willing to share their data for public health research with no significant differences between those with and without disabilities or among specific disability types. Conclusion: The findings underscore a general reluctance to share information for public health research. To address this reluctance, it is crucial to enhance public awareness of the potential benefits and educate users on how sharing data could contribute to understanding health behaviors and identifying public health needs.

Exploring Psychological Distress Among Individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities: The Impact of Age, Gender, and Disability Type

Background: Extensive research indicates that individuals with learning disabilities are more prone to experiencing heightened levels of emotional difficulties and distress. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationships between specific learning disabilities (SLDs) and psychological distress (PD), particularly focusing on the predictive power of difficulties in reading, writing, and arithmetic on PD, while also considering the effects of gender and age. Methods: The sample consisted of 133 participants (73 male) aged 23–44 years (M = 34.41, SD = 9.69), with 56 officially diagnosed with an SLD. The participants completed an online survey comprising a demographics questionnaire, a self-report SLD questionnaire, and psychological distress assessment using the K6 scale. Results: The participants with SLDs reported higher PD levels than the general population, with significant correlations between difficulties in reading, writing, and arithmetic and PD. Reading and writing difficulties were stronger predictors of PD than arithmetic difficulties. Additionally, the women and younger adults reported more PD, with the SLD severity significantly impacting PD beyond these variables. Conclusion: These findings highlight the strong link between SLDs and PD, particularly emphasizing the role of reading and writing difficulties in contributing to psychological distress. Moreover, the subjective severity of the SLD predicted PD beyond gender and age within the SLD group.