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Perceived Inclusivity in Mobility Aids Use: A Qualitative Study in Iran

Author

Listed:
  • Mohsen Rasoulivalajoozi

    (Department of Individualized Program, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1N2, Canada)

  • Carmela Cucuzzella

    (Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1B9, Canada)

  • Morteza Farhoudi

    (Design Department, Ontario College of Art & Design University, Toronto, ON M5T 1W1, Canada)

Abstract

Despite inclusive design focusing on improving environmental accessibility for mobility aid (MA) users, it often fails to ensure true inclusivity due to mismatches between interventions and user perceptions. Therefore, understanding MA users’ perceptions of inclusivity is essential for advancing disability studies and design, as it highlights key interventions for more effective practices. This study aims to explore perceived inclusivity in MAs’ usage and identifies gaps in users’ needs, classifying their needs and offering recommendations to meet them. First, the DARE-Inclusive Design Framework was used to develop interview guidelines and interpret results. Next, using a qualitative descriptive research, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 experienced physiotherapists in Iran. Finally, an inductive thematic analysis was applied to identify and present the emerging themes. Four themes were identified: 1. Perceived Financial Value: Assessing Worth, 2. Objective Enhancements: Optimizing Environments and MAs, 3. Subjective Enhancements: Trustworthiness, Support, and Hope, and 4. Contextual Factors: Interpretations and Representations. The four interconnected themes provide guidelines for inclusivity-oriented interventions, emphasizing financial assessment, high-tech integration, and aesthetic and symbolic considerations in MA design. Physiotherapists can also mediate emotional responses and enhance inclusion during rehabilitation. Additionally, social context and disability etiology impact users’ acceptance and use of MAs.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohsen Rasoulivalajoozi & Carmela Cucuzzella & Morteza Farhoudi, 2025. "Perceived Inclusivity in Mobility Aids Use: A Qualitative Study in Iran," Disabilities, MDPI, vol. 5(1), pages 1-17, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jdisab:v:5:y:2025:i:1:p:15-:d:1581391
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Rosemary Joan Gowran & Nathan Bray & Mary Goldberg & Paula Rushton & Marie Barhouche Abou Saab & David Constantine & Ritu Ghosh & Jonathan Pearlman, 2021. "Understanding the Global Challenges to Accessing Appropriate Wheelchairs: Position Paper," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(7), pages 1-14, March.
    2. Skempes, Dimitrios & Kiekens, Carlotte & Malmivaara, Anti & Michail, Xanthi & Bickenbach, Jerome & Stucki, Gerold, 2022. "Supporting government policies to embed and expand rehabilitation in health systems in Europe: A framework for action," Health Policy, Elsevier, vol. 126(3), pages 158-172.
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