Design: This study used a qualitative descriptive design.

Population, Sample, Setting, Years: Fifteen women between the ages of 50 to 65 years who had paralytic polio prior to age 13 were interviewed in their homes.

Concepts Studied: Adjustment to aging was studied using emic definitions.

Methods: This study consisted of multiple audio-taped interviews, field notes, life course charts and demographic information questions.

Findings: The women reported that their age influenced the way they adapted to their disability. Personal and social views of their age influenced their reaction and the reaction of others to their disability. The women were encouraged to be independent as children but encouraged to be more dependent as aging adults. Mental adjustment to changing expectations was difficult; the women used technology to stay independent as long as possible. The women purchased and transported multiple assistive devices to remain independent. Friendships were formed to provide social interaction as well as security and reassurance. The women mentally adapted to changes by learning how to reframe from activity and accept help with activities they were encouraged to do when younger. Many of the women developed new communication skills for gaining assistance.

Conclusions: Age and impairment may interact over the life course requiring physical and mental adjustment from the person aging with CODs.

Implications: Health care providers should assess how women with CODs have adjusted to their disabilities through out the life course before recommending new or alternative strategies. Before providers recommend adjustments that infer higher levels of dependence the woman’s ability to psychological accept these changes should be assessed. Gradual changes may be most appropriate.

Back to Posters II
Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004