Struggling to be part of Swedish society: Strategies used by immigrants with late effects of polio
Sammanfattning
Objective: To explore and describe strategies in daily occupations among immigrants with late effects of polio. Method. The
strategies were explored by interviews with 12 immigrants from Eastern Africa with late effects of polio. Sampling and data
analysis was carried out according to grounded theory. Results: The participants struggled for occupational participation and
normality in an effort to participate in, and be part of, society. The study identified 14 strategies used by the immigrants in their
daily occupations. The strategies can be presented in the following four categories: managing physical capacity; promoting
occupational performance; strategies for gaining respect; and preparing the ground for one’s existence. The participants
struggled to find a balance between physical capacity and meaningful occupations, conception of their own and others’ norms
and values, and living conditions in Swedish society. The strategies were related to the participants’ will to manage daily
occupations, maintain social relationships, and be part of society. Conclusions: The strategies revealed that the participants strive
to participate in occupations and society. This study reinforces the importance of occupation for immigrants with disability.
The results highlight the need for adequate health care and rehabilitation but should also alert other social institutions.