Changing needs and challenging perceptions of disabled people with acquired impairments

The point at which individuals acquire impairments can be a challenging one, for instance people may encounter shifts in financial circumstances, a need to find information, support and services while negotiating with physical changes and for some the ‘stigma’ of disability. The study adopts an individualised diary method combined with semi-structured interviews to collate in depth qualitative data, organised and presented using participants’ voices to chart the experiences and challenges encountered in relation to finding appropriate help at this time. A critical realist perspective is applied to identify what factors affect the participants’ successes and limitations in getting needs met in relation to recently acquired impairments. The data collection method ensures that this material presents the people involved holistically and looks beyond simple representations of disability and identity. It explores how perceptions of identity shift and how participants negotiate these changes over time. The model of the ‘Process of Disillusionment’ is developed as a key finding and consideration given as to how individuals can break free of such a process. Recommendations are then made as to ways in which this cycle of frustration may be resolved both on a collective and individual basis