Abstract
Researchers used qualitative research methods to explore determinants of and barriers to the health of women with physical disabilities. Semistructured, open-ended interviews were conducted with one focus group (n = 9) and 9 individual women with various physical disabilities. Participants: (1) defined physical health as a correlate of functional capacity; (2) noted the importance of a positive mental state; (3) recognized the effect of having or lacking social support; (4) described the role of health behaviors in health promotion, as adapted to their functional limitations; and (5) described problems with their medical practitioners' lack of knowledge. Barriers included certain disability characteristics, stress, inadequate social support, societal attitudes, and lack of resources.
WOMEN WITH PHYSICAL disabilities encounter numerous challenges to maintaining overall physical, psychological, and social health. The effects of the increased risk of developing health conditions that often accompany disability, the stresses that result from living in a society that imposes many limitations and stereotypes on women and persons with disabilities, and the pervasive environmental barriers that restrict socialization and participation in the community become evident upon examination of the health statistics of this population. 1 Nevertheless, some women with physical disabilities live in a state of vibrant health and, moreover, are able to maintain equilibrium whenever threats to their well-being arise. This article reports the findings of a qualitative study that sought to understand the concepts and practices used by women to maintain optimal health in the context of physical disability.