Understanding the Challenges of People with Disabilities in the Calabar Community of Salvador Da Bahia

Calabar da Bahia in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, is a part marked by economic deprivation, where the inhabitants grapple with a myriad of social challenges on a daily basis. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Calabar da Bahia. Considering the complexity and bi-directional influences of individuals and their surrounding systems, the aim is to shed light on the multi-dimensionality of these challenges. Drawing on ecological theory, we examine the various systems that influence the experiences of persons with disabilities. Participants were purposely selected, including three adults with disabilities, two primary caregivers, and three community leaders, intending to gain a holistic perspective on their experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed through thematic analysis, augmented by naturalistic observations. Results revealed four key themes: accessibility, poverty, discrimination, and informal support systems. Of these, accessibility emerged as the most significant challenge, and in particular that of gaining physical access to parts of town and important infrastructure. The results demonstrate that individuals with disabilities face substantial obstacles across different influential systems, with issues transcending the boundaries of various ecological environments. Future research should investigate possible interventions to decrease challenges and explore the needs of different disability groups.