AUTHOR=Ani Judith Ifunanya , Batisai Kezia , Ntoimo Loretta F. C. , Isiugo-Abanihe Uche C. 

TITLE=How Do Older Adults in a Sub-Saharan African Community Perceive and Cope With Their Disability? An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis

JOURNAL=International Journal of Public Health

VOLUME=68

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/international-journal-of-public-health/articles/10.3389/ijph.2023.1606273

DOI=10.3389/ijph.2023.1606273

ISSN=1661-8564

ABSTRACT=<p><bold>Objective:</bold> The study explored the perceptions and coping strategies employed by older adults in a Sub-Saharan African community in relation to their disabilities.</p><p><bold>Methods:</bold> The research utilized an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis methodology and conducted semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of households. The study recruited a total of 36 older adults aged 65 years and above, aiming to capture a diverse range of insights and perspectives within the Sub-Saharan African community.</p><p><bold>Results:</bold> Three interrelated themes pertaining to the perception of disability emerged: the impact of old age, disabilities caused by diseases, and disabilities attributed to external factors such as witchcraft. In coping with disability, two interrelated themes emerged: pragmatic coping strategies and unpragmatic coping strategies.</p><p><bold>Conclusion:</bold> This study offers valuable insights into the nuanced perception of disability and coping mechanisms utilized by older adults within the Sub-Saharan African community. By exploring their lived experiences, the findings contribute to a better understanding of the challenges they face. These insights have important implications for policy development and public health initiatives.</p>