SUPPORT NETWORK FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

This study focuses on the support network for people with disabilities and how this support is provided. The objective was to identify and understand the support networks and how they support the person with disability. Results of a descriptive qualitative approach, based on semi-structured interviews with 13 people with physical disabilities, six with amputation and seven with spinal cord injury treated at are habilitation center. Qualitative analysis was used with then coding processes, categorization and interpretation, which in three categories: composition of the network, type of support and support which is lacking. The main support was instrumental and emotional, especially that provided by the family. The needs of the interviewed people are related, among others, the lack of accessibility. The knowledge of support net works is important to guide the practice of nurses and other members of the healthcare team to expand and streng then the interconnection between the members of the support network.