Abstract
This study delves into the experience of self-determination, identity and respect in everyday life of visually impaired persons in Aruba.The island deals with an increasing number of people with disabilities that are considered ‘at risk’ for poverty and social exclusion. As societies become increasingly individualized, opportunities for daily assistance and
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care diminish; Aruba is no exception herein.Visual impairment is the most reported disability in Aruba. The study aims at developing an understanding of the impact of a visual impairment for those involved. The central question is: What changes occur for visually impaired people in Aruba with regards to their daily lives, their participation in society and their contact with significant persons and agencies; how do they experience this and which opportunities do they have to continue to function, independently, or in collaboration with others and agencies? In total 32 respondents aged fifteen years and older were interviewed. The focus was on their unique constructions of reality, on their individual life stories and on the specific cultural and historicalcontext. Although sensemaking is unique for each person, life stories were analyzed with attention to salient themes. Sensitizing concepts were used in an eclectic way, paying attention to key incidents in their lives. The local context is crucial for reaching an understanding of contemporary meaning and interactions as well as for the feasibility of practical implications that can be drawn from this study. This inductive study elucidates the full complexity of the condition of a visual impairment. After the diagnosis has been established, which may entail a very complex process itself, an important element in the various coping strategies is provided by the shift in the balance between reciprocity and dependence most of the respondents experience, with consequences for the experienced self-determination, identity, and (self-) respect. Various participants needed to travel abroad to get diagnosed and/or receive specialist treatment which affects that practical and emotional support that can be provided by their relevant others. In an immigration country as Aruba, family members and friends come and go and are not always available on site to help. A number of visual impaired persons even conceal their visual identity. This all can lead to social isolation and poor social standing. Much depends on the quality of the interaction with others and agencies. Key incidents, such as ‘That day, I stopped driving’ seem to mark crucial developments for many. Remarkable are the so-called ‘leverage figures’ who appear to have given those involved an ‘unsolicited’ essential nudge in a specific direction at ‘a particular moment’. Many of the participants can increase their options provided that they learn how to stand up for their limitations and open up to others and/or new experiences.
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