Struggling to be part of Swedish society: Strategies used by immigrants with late effects of polio

Abstract

Objective: To explore and describe strategies in daily occupations among immigrants with late effects of polio. Method. The strategies were explored by interviews with 12 immigrants from Eastern Africa with late effects of polio. Sampling and data analysis was carried out according to grounded theory. Results: The participants struggled for occupational participation and normality in an effort to participate in, and be part of, society. The study identified 14 strategies used by the immigrants in their daily occupations. The strategies can be presented in the following four categories: managing physical capacity; promoting occupational performance; strategies for gaining respect; and preparing the ground for one’s existence. The participants struggled to find a balance between physical capacity and meaningful occupations, conception of their own and others’ norms and values, and living conditions in Swedish society. The strategies were related to the participants’ will to manage daily occupations, maintain social relationships, and be part of society. Conclusions: The strategies revealed that the participants strive to participate in occupations and society. This study reinforces the importance of occupation for immigrants with disability. The results highlight the need for adequate health care and rehabilitation but should also alert other social institutions.

Key words:

• Adaptation
• daily activities
• normality
• occupational therapy
• participation
• post-polio syndrome
• qualitative study

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by grants from the local Research and Development Council of Gothenburg and southern Bohuslän, by the Norrbacka – Eugenia Foundation and by the Committee for Mental and Physical Disabilities of the Region Västra Götaland. The authors are grateful to Professor Katharina Stibrant Sunnerhagen and the Polio Unit in the Rehabilitation Department for selection of participants.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper