How Does the Process of Patients’ Self-Empowerment Happen Within the Community Among Individuals With Visual Impairment?

Abstract

PURPOSE:Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is associated with visual impairment and negative effects on patients’ abilities and independence in their life. This study aims at exploring the process of self-empowerment among individuals with RP.METHOD:This study was conducted using a grounded theory design. Participants were RP-afflicted individuals.RESULTS:“Erosion of personal and social abilities” was the main problem of participants. The context in which the process happened was “The social poverty of the context.” Their main strategy for managing this problem was “self-improving,” which was associated with improved personal and social status. The core category of the study was “participatory self-empowering in the unfavorable context of society.”CONCLUSIONS:Affliction by RP in an inappropriate social environment causes individuals different problems. Therefore, individuals modify their lifestyles, develop their social abilities, adapt to their environment, and seek help in order to manage their problems. Holistic multidisciplinary interventions based on the needs of patients are recommended for their empowerment.