The family and the experience of acquired physical disability: challenges and strategies in care
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33194/rper.2025.40611Keywords:
Family of People with Disabilities, Disabled Persons, Rehabilitation Nursing, Family Relations, Quality of Life, Social InclusionAbstract
Introduction: The acquisition of a physical disability by a family member imposes structural, emotional, and social challenges, affecting family dynamics and Well-Being. This study analyzes the experience of families in the adaptation process to acquired physical disability. It investigates the strategies and family dynamics in caring for and supporting a person with an acquired physical disability.
Methodology: Qualitative study with a phenomenological approach and intentional sampling. Eight family members of people with acquired physical disabilities participated in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis based on Bardin. We use ATLAS.ti 25® software for coding.
Results: Three main categories emerged: (1) Accessibility and Social Inclusion, highlighting architectural and institutional barriers; (2) Attitudes and Prejudices, revealing the impacts of ableism and social exclusion; and (3) Family Dynamics, addressing the reorganization of routines, caregiver burden, and resilience strategies.
Discussion: The results indicate that adapting to a disability involves physical, emotional, and economic challenges. The lack of adequate support exacerbates caregiver burden and negatively impacts Well-Being.
Conclusion: The study reinforces the need for effective public policies and rehabilitation nursing interventions to strengthen the role of the family as a unit of care, promoting the Well-Being of people with disabilities and their families.
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