Browsing by Author "Liebenberg, Anjanet Wanda"
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- ItemParental experiences on the role of wheelchairs in the lives of children with mobility impairments : a qualitative exploration in Dubai(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-12) Liebenberg, Anjanet Wanda; Visagie, Surona; Geiger, Martha; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Centre for Rehabilitation Studies.ENGLISH SUMMARY : Purpose: To explore parental experiences on the role of wheelchairs in the lives of children with mobility impairments in Dubai. Methods: Seven participants were recruited through purposive sampling and their experiences were explored by conducting semi-structured interviews. The audio recordings were transcribed and thematically analysed. Results: The findings showed that wheelchairs were an essential part of the children`s lives, which enabled their participation in the home, the school and the community. Procurement processes were difficult owing to a lack of assessment and prescription as well as insurance companies providing little assistance with payment. Participants described Dubai as a wheelchair friendly city, and two overarching themes emerged, firstly, Wheelchair: “It is her life”, and, secondly, Participation: Isolation versus inclusion Conclusion: The study is the first of its kind in Dubai and revealed that the wheelchair played an important role in the child’s life and allowed participation in life roles that brought joy and fulfilment. Without wheelchairs, children would be isolated and frustrated. However, some of the participants were not satisfied with their child’s current wheelchair and felt the chair was not appropriate. It is recommended that the Government of the Dubai develop policies to guide wheelchair service provision in the country. In addition, insurance providers should collaborate with the government to adhere to the policy to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.