Loneliness of people with physical disabilities

• Ami Rokach

  The Institute for the Study and Treatment of Psychosocial Stress

• Rachel Lechcier-Kimel

  York University , York University

• Artem Safarov

  York University , York University

Physical disability has a profound effect on one’s quality of life, social intercourse and  emotional well-being. Loneliness has been found to be a frequent companion of those afflicted with chronic illnesses that result in physical disabilities. This study examined the  qualitative aspects of that loneliness. Five hundred and ninety-three participants volunteered  to answer a 30-item yes/no questionnaire. Those with physical disabilities were compared  to the nondisabled (general population), and then further divided into five homogeneous subgroups (i.e., those with multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, Parkinson’s, arthritis, and “other”  disabilities) which were compared to each other and to the general population sample who  are healthy and not chronically ill. Results indicate that the loneliness of those with physical  disabilities differs significantly from that of the general population.

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