PERCEPTION OF WOMEN USING WHEELCHAIR IN TAMILNADU ABOUT THEIR HOMEMAKING OCCUPATION AND ITS PERFORMANCE: AN EXPLORATIVE QUALITATIVE STUDY

Background: Women who use wheelchairs, essential for mobility, continue to participate in homemaking activities despite challenges that often prevent full engagement and satisfaction. Various barriers within the home environment increase their dependence on others. This study explores the perceptions of women using wheelchairs in Tamil Nadu regarding homemaking tasks and the difculties they face. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological study was conducted with nine women selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected via telecommunication interviews and analyzed thematically. Results:Ten key themes emerged, including pain and discomfort, architectural barriers, self-condence, wheelchair accessibility, societal participation, support, safety measures, and independence in daily activities. Conclusion: This study highlights the physical and psychological barriers these women face and their impact on occupational performance. The ndings offer valuable insights for occupational therapists to develop interventions, addressing issues like home modications, family support, and enhancing independence and quality of life for wheelchair users.