Physical Disabilities Research Articles

The relationship between multidimensional social support and well-being in disability sport

In this study, we investigated the relationships among perceived social support, perceived available support in sport, team cohesion, grit, sport engagement, and life satisfaction among disability sport athletes. Twenty-four athletes from Israel and Belgium, aged 22 to 65, 87.5% male (n = 24) and 12.5% female (n = 3), with physical disabilities participated. The results showed significant positive correlations between team cohesion and sport engagement (r = 0.44, p < 0.05) and life satisfaction (r = 0.57, p < 0.01). Team cohesion was also linked to perceived social support (r = 0.55, p < 0.01). Finally, grit and sport engagement (r = 0.50, p < 0.01) and perceived social support and sport engagement (r = 0.50, p < 0.05) were correlated. These findings underscore the importance of supportive social environments inside and outside of sport in potentially enhancing athlete well-being.

Impact of cannabis abuse on the occurrence of stroke in young people: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The occurrence of stroke in young people has risen significantly. This can easily lead to physical disabilities, swallowing difficulties, and cognitive impairment, among other issues, having a profound impact on families and society. Risk factors for stroke in young people differ from those for traditional stroke, with cannabis abuse emerging as a significant high-risk factor. However, the extent of the impact of cannabis abuse on the occurrence of stroke and the rate of disability in young people remains unclear. To clarify this issue and provide evidence supporting the primary prevention of stroke in young people, this systematic review and meta-analysis summarizes the latest findings from previous studies. A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was conducted until April 2023. The review included observational studies comparing stroke risk estimates between cannabis abusers and non-users. This review included six observational studies focusing on cannabis abuse, involving 119,284,152 participants. A significant association was found between cannabis abuse and an increased risk of stroke [OR = 1.14, 95% CI (1.08, 1.20)]. However, there was substantial heterogeneity among the studies (I 2 = 89%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders such as smoking and alcohol abuse, we found a stronger association between cannabis abuse and stroke in young adults [OR = 1.21, 95% CI (1.12, 1.29)]. Subgroup analyses revealed no significant difference in stroke risk between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes (p = 0.43). The results of our systematic review and meta-analysis showed that cannabis abuse has a more significant effect on the occurrence of stroke in young people; however, it was not possible to distinguish whether cannabis abuse is more likely to cause ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Further research is needed to explore the impact of different drug types, dosages, and behaviors on stroke risk. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, Identifier CRD42023443261.

Socio-demographic, psychosocial, and suicidal behavior correlates of stigma among people with physical disabilities in Northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundPeople with physical disability may experience stigma in various ways, including social avoidance, negative attitudes and discrimination. Stigma among people with physical disability can vary based on study participants’ socio-demographic, behavioral and psychosocial factors. Therefore, identifying the socio-demographic, behavioral and psychosocial correlates of stigma is important because the findings of the study can help inform future interventions aimed at reducing stigma among individuals with a physical disability.ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the psychosocial, suicidal behavior, and socio-demographic correlates of stigma among people with physical disabilities in the University of Gondar communities, northwest Ethiopia.MethodData collection was conducted among 269 participants who had a physical disability within University of Gondar communities in Northwest Ethiopia. The participants, who included students and employees at the University completed the stigma scale for chronic illness (SSCI-8), which was used to measure stigma. The participants also completed four other questionnaires, including the perceived social support, the Kessler − 10, and the WHODAS. We used independent sample t-tests and ANOVA to examine group differences in stigma, while Pearson correlation analysis identified the correlates of stigma with other continuous variables.ResultThe overall mean stigma score among people with a physical disability was 14.68 with 95% CI (13.98, 15.38). About 90.71% of people with physical disability had stigma. Stigma varied along socio-demographic variables, including marital status (single) with a mean (SD) score of 15.17 ± 5.64, educational level (diploma and above) with a mean (SD) score of 14.99 ± 5.89, and occupational status with a mean (SD) score of 15.54 ± 5.79 (p < 0.001). In addition, stigma varied among participants with suicidal ideation with a mean (SD) score of 16.93 ± 7.43 and attempt (18.74 ± 8.41), levels of psychological distress (severe) with a mean (SD) score of 20.88 ± 6.94 (p < 0.001), low perceived social support with a mean (SD) score of 18.60 ± 7.54 (p < 0.001), and moderate/severe level of functional impairment with a mean (SD) score of 21.76 ± 7.34 (p < 0.001). Moreover, stigma was positively correlated with psychological distress (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (r = 0.5, p < 0.001). Conversely, it was negatively correlated with perceived social support (r=-0.31, p < 0.001).ConclusionOur findings indicate that stigma is prevalent among people with physical disabilities, with variations observed based on marital status, occupation, and education level. Additionally, stigma showed significant correlations with functional impairment, psychological distress, perceived social support, and health related quality of life. Therefore, addressing stigma, promoting social support and providing appropriate interventions can help improve the psychological well-being and quality of life of individuals with physical disabilities.

Oral Function, Loneliness, Depression, and Social Participation Among Physically Disabled Middle-Aged and Older Adult Individuals: Insights from a Japanese Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: In the context of an aging society, physical disability and its relationship with frailty is of growing concern. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between oral function, social participation, and loneliness among community-dwelling middle-aged and older adult physically disabled individuals. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the participants were 140 individuals with certified physical disabilities living in the studied area. Demographic characteristics, outing activities, loneliness (Three-Item Loneliness (TIL) Scale), and frailty/ability to live independently (Kihon Checklist (KCL)) were assessed using a questionnaire survey. The participants were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of oral dysfunction (OD), and statistical analyses were performed to compare the groups. Results: The group with OD had significantly higher TIL and KCL total scores and significantly lower mobility, confinement, cognitive function, greater levels of depression, and fewer outing activities (volunteering, movies, festivals, sports) compared to the group without OD. In a multivariate, age- and sex-adjusted binomial logistic regression analysis, outing activities (OR = 0.011, 95% CI: 0.000-0.529, p = 0.023) and loneliness (OR = 6.174, 95%CI: 1.292-29.502, p = 0.023) were identified as significant factors. Conclusions: An association was found between OD, loneliness, and social activities among middle-aged and older individuals with physical disabilities. The results suggest that future interventions should consider the relationship between oral function and factors such as depression, loneliness, social isolation, and social engagement as a means to mitigate frailty and other health and well-being concerns for physically disabled individuals.

Assessment of Food Preferences, Eating Practices, and Nutritional Status Among In-school Able and Disabled Adolescents of Ages 10 - 19 Years in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

Background: Malnutrition affects school-age children's health, growth, and academic performance. Adolescents often consume unhealthy fast foods and follow crash diets influenced by peers, media, and cultural norms. Adolescents with disabilities, including physical, intellectual, sensory, developmental, and mental health disabilities, may face additional challenges in accessing and maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet as they may face additional barriers. Understanding the unique needs and challenges faced by adolescents with disabilities is crucial in promoting their overall health and well-being. Objectives: The study aimed to compare the nutritional status of able and disabled adolescents in Government Vocational and Technical College and Niger State School of Special Education in Minna, as well as their food preferences, eating practices, and the factors affecting their nutritional status. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional design, administering 400 questionnaires to disabled and able students. The responses were 100% collected using self-administered structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed, and results were presented utilizing tables and figures, with a statistical significance level set at P &lt; 0.05. The IBM statistical product and service solutions (IBM SPSS statistics), version 27.0 software was employed for data analysis to explore and understand the food preferences, eating practices, and nutritional status of in-school adolescents with disabilities in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. This approach allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the diverse factors influencing the dietary habits and nutritional well-being of adolescents with disabilities in the study. Results: The study involved 400 participants, with 12.8% aged over 12 years, 50.3% aged 12 - 15 years, and 37.0% above 15 years. Females made up 51.0% of the participants. About 40% of disabled participants had inadequate dietary patterns, compared to 10% of able participants. There was a significant difference in the distribution of BMI groups between the able and disabled subjects (x2 = 26.984, df = 3, P = 0.000). Socio-demographic of the participants based on age and gender showed a significant association with the nutritional status of able adolescents at (χ2 = 44.593, P = 0.000) and (χ2 = 4.650, P = 0.031) respectively and among disabled at (χ2 = 18.303, P = 0.000) and (χ2 = 23.925, P = 0.000) respectively. Conclusions: The study revealed disabled adolescents often skip meals, consume fast foods, and have poor dietary habits. Interventions like education and increased access to healthy food options are needed.

Assessment of Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Quality of Life, and Fatigue in Patients After a Cerebrovascular Accident.

Background A cerebrovascular accident, or stroke, is a neurological disorder. Those who suffer from a stroke not only face physical disabilities but also a range of psychological issues resulting from concerns about their current situation. The purpose of this study was to assess depression, anxiety, stress, and fatigue after a stroke, along with its effects on quality of life (QoL), degree of disability, and prevalence of various risk factors of stroke. Materials and methods Adult male and female patients who had experienced a stroke and came to the psychiatry or neurology outpatient departments were evaluated. A detailed stroke history was taken for them. The Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SSQOL) Scale, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test C (AUDIT C) scale, Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R) scale, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) were applied to assess the QoL, depression, anxiety, stress, alcohol use, suicidal behavior, fatigue, and the degree of disability, if any, after stroke. Results The study involved 100 stroke patients aged 18-60 years, with 82 males and 18 females. The mean age was 45.76 ± 8.54 years. 88% experienced an ischemic stroke, and 12% a hemorrhagic stroke. 68% had comorbidities, and alcohol use was present in 48% of patients. The QoL was lowest in the domains of social roles, upper extremity, family roles, and productivity. The study revealed that 67% of patients experienced depression, 63% anxiety, and 62% stress, with 40% having a high risk of suicidal behavior, 57% experiencing fatigue, and 67% disability. There was a significant positive correlation between lower QoL scores, higher depression, anxiety, stress, disability, suicidal ideation, fatigue, and factors such as increased age, female gender, recurrent stroke, psychiatric illness history, multiple comorbidities, and substance use. Conclusion Neuropsychiatric problems following a stroke are common and have serious consequences that significantly influence stroke survivors' QoL and ability to recover.

Accessibility in an Inclusive Academic Environment: The Case of Takoradi Technical University

This study examines the extent to which Takoradi Technical University (TTU) in Ghana has achieved an inclusive academic environment for students with disabilities. Despite Ghana's commitment to inclusive education and various policies supporting persons with disabilities (PWDs), there remains a significant research gap regarding the practical implementation and effectiveness of these policies at the university level. This research addresses this gap by evaluating TTU's accessibility measures and support services. The study employs a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of students with disabilities, faculty, and staff at TTU. It investigates the alignment of TTU’s practices with national and international inclusive education policies, such as the Persons with Disability Act (715) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The research focuses on three main objectives: identifying the teaching and learning needs of disabled students, assessing the accessibility of TTU's built environment, and evaluating the satisfaction of students with the available support services. Data were collected through qualitative interviews with 28 participants, including students with disabilities, lecturers, and support staff. Findings reveal that TTU has established various support services, including sign language interpretation, e-learning support, and assistive devices. However, students reported inadequacies in these services, citing needs for additional support such as braille services and extended examination time. Furthermore, the built environment at TTU was found to be largely inaccessible to students with physical disabilities, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among the student body. The study highlights that while TTU has made commendable efforts in providing institutionalized support for disabled students, significant gaps remain in service adequacy and physical accessibility. The findings underscore the need for enhanced strategies to improve inclusivity at TTU and similar institutions, aligning practical implementations with policy frameworks to better serve students with disabilities

Factors Influencing Suicidal Ideation in Persons with Physical Disabilities.

Suicidal ideation is a leading indicator of suicide risk, particularly among persons with disabilities, a population at high risk of suicide. This study aimed to identify factors affecting suicidal ideation among persons with physical disabilities in Korea. Data for this cross-sectional study were obtained from the Disability and Life Dynamics Panel. Eight hundred and twenty-eight persons with physical disabilities were extracted from the data, and seven hundred seventy people who responded to the suicidal ideation question were included in the analysis. Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed. The results show a high percentage of suicidal ideation among persons with physical disabilities (18.5%). Among the general characteristics, more women were found to have suicidal ideation than men, and people in their 40s and 60s had a higher rate of suicidal ideation than other age groups. A lower educational level was found to be related to suicidal ideation. After controlling for general characteristics, depression increased the likelihood of suicidal ideation among individuals with physical disabilities. Economic difficulties and disability acceptance did not relate to suicidal ideation. Based on the results of this study, continuous observation of suicidal ideation in people with physical disabilities and early intervention programs for preventing depression and increasing disability acceptance are considered necessary.

The incidence of benign and malignant tumors among adults with long-term physical disabilities

People with long-term physical disabilities also suffer from different types and nature of tumors as well as general population. Unfortunately, the information about the frequency of these diseases among the specified contingent is very deficient. The objectives of the study were to determine the incidence of benign and malignant neoplasia among the adults and elderly with physical disabilities and to indicate the risk factors for the appearance and development of tumors in this population. In this descriptive survey, 186 people, living in the largest home on the Balkan Peninsula for adults and elderly people with long-term physical disabilities were studied in 2021. 82.79% of the residents were over 51 years of age and almost all of them are inhabited by two residents. 42.47% of the respondents were men and 57.52% – women. Data on the demographic characteristics of the respondents, including their personal lifestyle and self-reported diagnosis of presence and/or history of a tumor formation, were collected through a semi-structured interview. The verification of the collected information about the incidence of benign and malignant lesions among adults with physical disabilities was carried out by means of the application of the second research method – content analysis based on the medical records. For processing and analysis of the collected data, it was used statistical software – IBM SPSS Statistics V21.0. The results showed a significantly high rate in the prevalence of tumor formations in the sample – 24.19%. The pre-cancerous formations have the highest incidence among residents – 42.22% with the most common variant – chronic form of cholecystitis combined with cholelithiasis (37.77%). Prostatic hyperplasia and uterine leiomyoma are the leading benign lesions in male residents – 11.11%, in female respondents – 11.11% respectively. The predominant form of cancer is breast carcinoma – 8.88%. The research found a high prevalence of tumor formations among adult patients with long-term physical disabilities. The harmful impact of a number of behavioral habits and health determinants significantly contributes to this negative tendency.

‘This environment will change you’: Risk factors faced by newly qualified teachers in special education needs schools for learners with physical disabilities

‘This environment will change you’: Risk factors faced by newly qualified teachers in special education needs schools for learners with physical disabilities

Cohen Syndrome, A Case Report

Background: Cohen syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities. It is primarily considered in children presenting with microcephaly, early-onset hypotonia, neutropenia, and global developmental delay. Results: A 16-day-old female infant with low birth weight and dysmorphic features was evaluated. This case highlights the importance of considering Cohen syndrome in the differential diagnosis of infants with similar clinical findings. Early recognition allows for timely intervention and support. Conclusion: While there is no cure for Cohen syndrome, early diagnosis and management can improve quality of life.Genetic counseling is essential for affected families.

Lighting Features Affecting the Well-Being of Able-Bodied People and People with Physical Disabilities in the Park in the Evening: An Integrated and Sustainable Approach to Lighting Urban Green Areas

This study focuses on the analysis of lighting in night conditions to explain what lighting in parks should look like and how parks should be lit from the point of view of people’s perceptions. It addresses the impact of the lighting configuration of urban parks on preference, safety, mystery, legibility, and contact with the environment. The feelings of wheelchair users and able-bodied people were measured. The respondents assessed park landscapes presented in visualisations that varied in terms of lighting features and spatial contexts. This research showed, inter alios, that the participants rated evenly lit spaces more highly than those featuring spot lighting. In unevenly lit spaces, the lighting of the surroundings turned out to be crucial import for able-bodied people, while for the disabled respondents, a combination of lighting of the surroundings and of paths was significant. For evenly lit spaces, path lighting is less important for disabled people than for those without disabilities. These insights can help researchers to look at lighting solutions in a more human-centered way and take into account the environment in which they are used. This allows the design of night lighting in parks to be socially sustainable and promotes access to urban green spaces for all citizens. The study emphasises that the provision of sustainable lighting in parks should take into account different social groups, making light a common good.

Subjective Well-Being of Students with Disabilities in Kazakhstan: An Exploration of Practice

This study aims to examine the factors that mediate the impact of physical disabilities on the subjective well-being of learners with disabilities in Kazakhstan. Classified as descriptive research, the study sample consists of students from four to eight Kazakh language classes in Almaty, Kazakhstan, totaling 76 male and female students. Subjective vitality is considered one of the indicators of subjective well-being. The data show that the meaningfulness of life has the strongest correlation with the Vt-d scale. The study findings also reveal that personal efforts, an active role in one's own situation, and a desire for self-development serve as the foundation for harmonious personal development and subjective well-being. An analysis of variance reveals a statistically significant effect of disability on life satisfaction; however, the vast y majority of differences appear at the trend level and/or are caused by the combined impact of gender and disability factors. The study's findings enable the development of recommendations for educational policymakers and specialists working in the disability assistance system.

Legislative Frameworks and Infrastructure Accessibility for Students with Physical Disabilities in Higher Education: A Comparative Study of Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia

Legislative Frameworks and Infrastructure Accessibility for Students with Physical Disabilities in Higher Education: A Comparative Study of Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia

Psychological wellbeing among carers of children and adolescents with physical disabilities in North-Eastern Tanzania-a cross-sectional survey study.

Caring for physically disabled children, particularly in contexts where resources are often insufficient or absent, exposes primary carers to significant psychological strain. The lack of structured mechanisms to address this psychological burden poses a considerable threat to the wellbeing of both carers and the children with disabilities under their care. However, research on the psychological wellbeing of carers in Tanzania is scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the psychological wellbeing and symptoms of anxiety and depression, along with associated factors, of carers of children, and adolescents with physical disabilities in the Kilimanjaro region. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from November 2020 to June 2021 in the Kilimanjaro region, involving 212 carers. The Swahili versions of the WHO-5 Wellbeing Index and Hopkins Symptoms Check List-25 were used to assess psychological wellbeing and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics V.28. Multivariable linear and binary logistic regression were used to assess the associations. More than four fifths (81%) of the carers were parents, and most of these parents were mothers (92%). Of the 212 carers, more than half (51%) exhibited poor psychological wellbeing, 42% had symptoms of anxiety, and 38% symptoms of depression. Notably, poor psychological wellbeing was significantly associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results of a multivariable regression analysis indicated that extended family support was associated with better psychological wellbeing and lower odds of symptoms of anxiety and depression. A higher estimated monthly income was associated with better psychological wellbeing, and lower odds of symptoms of depression. Access to rehabilitation for the child was associated with improved psychological wellbeing and decreased likelihood of symptoms of anxiety. Many carers of children, and adolescents with physical disabilities in Tanzania are at high risk of having poor psychological wellbeing, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Support from extended-family networks is crucial in promoting good psychological wellbeing. The government in Tanzania should improve rehabilitation services, especially in disadvantaged rural areas, and integrate mental-health screening for carers in both rehabilitation programmes and primary healthcare.

The Impact of Ableist Microaggressions on Identity Formation Among Adults With Disabilities

This study examined the impact of ableist microaggressions on the formation of a disability identity, with a heavy focus on the microinsult of presumed lack of intellect. Participants were 267 adults with cognitive and/or physical disabilities, ages 18 to 65, living in the United States. Experiences of ableist microaggressions were assessed using online survey data. Our analyses indicated ableist microaggressions appear to increase pride in a person’s disability instead of the negative impact that was originally hypothesized. However, the microinsult of presumed lack of intellect was correlated with increased shame towards disability as hypothesized, also negatively impacting one’s acceptance of their disability identity. Results also showed there is statistical significance when comparing gender differences in amount of ableist microaggressions encountered. Strengths, limitations, clinical implications, and directions for future research are discussed.

The preventive health management self-efficacy related to preterm labor scale in reproductive-aged women: Validation of Turkish reliability and factor structure.

This study aims to test and adapt the Turkish psychometric properties of the preventive health management self-efficacy related to premature labor (PHMSE-PL) scale for women of reproductive age. The study follows a methodological approach. The original scale comprises 34 items distributed across 5 subscales and is structured on a five-point Likert scale. The study sample consisted of 351 women aged 19 to 49, all without any physical or mental disabilities, irrespective of marital status or pregnancy status. Exclusion criteria encompassed women engaged in healthcare professions such as medical faculty, nursing, or midwifery, as well as those with a history of preterm birth during pregnancy. During the validity assessment of the scale, language, content, and construct validity were scrutinized. In the reliability phase, internal consistency and stability over time -analyses were conducted. Following confirmation of language validity, all items achieved a content validity index value exceeding 0.80. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were employed to assess structural validity, revealing that the scale retained its original grouping into five sub-factors. These factors collectively accounted for 81.5% of the variance. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the entire scale reached 0.98, indicating high internal consistency. Test-retest analyses yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.99 between overall scale scores, demonstrating excellent consistency between the two measurement measurements. The PHMSE-PL scale adapted to Turkish culture demonstrated high levels of validity and reliability.

Effective Pedagogical Strategies and Support Mechanisms for Enhancing the Learning Outcomes of Students with Special Educational Needs: A Systematic Approach

The educational landscape for students with special educational needs (SEN) has seen significant evolution over the years, but challenges persist in creating effective, inclusive learning environments. This paper systematically explores the pedagogical strategies and support mechanisms that have been identified as instrumental in improving learning outcomes for SEN students. Central to this study is the examination of differentiated instruction, individualized education plans (IEPs), and assistive technologies, all of which cater to the varied needs of students who require specialized support. Through a comprehensive literature review, case studies, and empirical data, the research highlights how educators can tailor teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning abilities, thereby fostering better engagement and academic success. Differentiated instruction, a key pedagogical strategy, allows educators to adapt content, process, and products to meet the specific needs of each student. This flexibility ensures that students with cognitive, physical, or sensory disabilities can fully participate in classroom activities, while still maintaining a sense of inclusion and equality. Additionally, support mechanisms such as assistive technologies—ranging from adaptive keyboards and screen readers to speech-to-text software—are proven to be invaluable in helping SEN students overcome traditional learning barriers. These technologies empower students to access educational content in ways that align with their individual capabilities, promoting independence and self-confidence in their learning journeys. Moreover, individualized education plans (IEPs) serve as personalized roadmaps that guide teachers, parents, and specialists in delivering tailored interventions and monitoring each student's progress over time. However, while these strategies and mechanisms offer immense potential for improving learning outcomes, there are significant challenges in their implementation. Many educators face difficulties in adapting their teaching methods due to limited training or insufficient resources, which can hinder the consistent application of these practices. Additionally, schools often struggle with policy constraints and funding limitations, which restrict their ability to provide necessary support, especially in under-resourced regions. The findings of this research underscore the importance of continuous professional development for educators, institutional support for inclusive practices, and strong parental involvement in the educational process. Ultimately, the study advocates for a systematic, multi-faceted approach that integrates pedagogical innovation with adequate support mechanisms. By doing so, the educational system can more effectively cater to the unique needs of SEN students, ensuring that they achieve both academic success and emotional well-being. This paper concludes with practical recommendations for educators and policymakers, offering a roadmap for fostering inclusive, supportive, and effective educational environments for SEN students. Through the combined efforts of educators, parents, and institutions, it is possible to create a more equitable educational landscape where every student, regardless of their learning challenges, is provided the opportunity to thrive.

Implementation of K-Means and Single Linkage on Types of Disabilities in East Java Province

The high number of people with disabilities is one of the problems faced by the Indonesian government, especially in Java Province. After West Java Province, East Java Province is in second place as the province with the highest rate of people with disabilities in Indonesia. Disabled people are people with physical disabilities such as not being able to walk, not being able to talk, not being able to see, and so on. The aim of this research is to group districts in East Java Province based on types of disabilities with the hope of facilitating activities in fulfilling the rights of people with disabilities in East Java Province. The grouping was carried out in order to determine the characteristics of each cluster using so that the optimal k-means method was used for clustering using the Euclidean distance method with cluster 1 in 29 districts and cluster 2 in 9 districts. The most optimal single linkage uses the Euclidean distance method with cluster 1 having 8 districts and cluster 2 having 30 districts. From the results of the validity index values, it was found that the single linkage method had the smallest validity value of the icdrate method compared to the k-means method.

Being a parent with a physical disability: A systematic review.

There is a significant gap in the literature with regards to the synthesis of qualitative research that explores the parenting experiences of parents with physical disabilities. This systematic review aims to synthesize the evidence regarding the experiences of parents with acquired and congenital physical disabilities. This article presents a thematic synthesis of qualitative research carried out in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies were identified through searches of Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases and backward snowballing. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative checklist was used as a quality assessment tool. Eleven articles were included in this review, and all were deemed to be high quality. Seven themes were identified: stigmatization and the need to prove competence as a parent; feeling underrepresented as a parent with a physical disability; environmental limitations; experiences of accessing support; using skills and strategies to fulfill parenting role; children's roles and reactions, and changes as they grow; and safety, wellness, and health when parenting with a physical disability. The findings emphasize the adaptability and resourcefulness of parents with physical disabilities in navigating environments that can be unsupportive, while continuing to prioritize their children's safety and well-being. The need for community peer-support groups and health care professionals who can provide emotional support, further public education with regards to the capabilities of parents with physical disabilities, prioritization of accessibility in public and private spaces, and the development of adapted childcare equipment, were all highlighted. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).