Question

Discuss how time changes "disability" (address society at large, the affected individual, and families, caregivers, and social groups/friends). How has time changed your views?

Answer 1

Restriction in performance or function in everyday activities of a person is termed DISABILITY. Disability can occur at any age and may result from an acute accident , such as stroke or trauma, or from the progression of a chronic condition such as arthritis or multiple sclerosis. A person with disability may experience many losses, including loss of function, independence, social role, status and income. A patient and his /her family members experience a range of emotional reaction to these losses. The reactions may progress from dis organisation and confusion to denial of the disability , grief over the lost function or body part, depression, anger and finally acceptance of disability. The reactions may subside over time and may recur at a later time ,especially if chronic illness is progressive and result in increasing losses. Not all patients experience all of the same stages , although most do exhibit grief. The patient's prexisting coping capabilities play an important role in the adaptation process,one patient maybe particularly independent and determined, while another may be dependent and seem to lack personal power. Rehabilitation aim to help the patient gain a positive self image through effective coping and self esteem . Recognition of the coping abilities and the knowledge to judge when a patient is not coping well or adjusting will be very helpful to take steps to induce coping abilities and self esteem.

Although rehabilitation is a component of every patient's care there are specialty rehabilitation programmes established in general hospitals, free standing rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient facilities and nursing homes. A large variety of assistive devices are available commercially or can be fabricated by the nurse, occupational therapist , the patient or the family. A wide selection of computerized assistive devices is available,or devices can be designed to help individual clients with severe disabilities to function more independently. Disabled persons are provided with training for communication and social assertiveness skills to develop relationships desired. Pet therapy and canine companion programs have reduced stress and promotes coping for many disabled individuals at present. The home care nurses may visit the patient in home , hospital , and interview the family & patient and provide health education regarding continuity of care and boost patient's independent abilities and provide assistance in needed activities of daily living. Thus nowadays families are encouraged to visit , to be involved and to help their family members with disability even when they are in extended care facilities.