A qualitative study of the lived experiences of working age adults living with adventitious total bilateral blindness in Nigeria

Abstract

Working age adults living with adventitious blindness (occurring from age five) in Nigeria face significant challenges, including rehabilitation, depriving them of the quality of care required for successful adaptation and integration. This study aimed to explore their lived experiences to inform policy and service delivery. Dahlgren and Whitehead's socioecological model underpinned this study to highlight how institutions and society shape participants' lives. In-depth interviews were conducted with 40 participants on multi-level and multi-dimensional factors, including environmental, economic, social, and individual factors. Audio recordings were transcribed and analysed using framework analysis. The analysis yielded 14 themes, including barriers to employment, education, rehabilitation, and other essential services that undermined productivity and integration. Reports of pervasive discrimination and stigma were compounded by a long-standing history of non/poor implementation of anti-discrimination laws. To deeply understand the nature of the layers of exclusion, oppression, and subjugation faced by participants, findings were discussed using Critical Disability Theory. The findings suggest that Nigerian society is currently structured in a way that keeps people living with adventitious blindness disabled, rendering them powerless and unable to fully actualise their aspirations, career goals, and societal and civic obligations. This necessitates multi-sectoral reforms strengthened by the implementation of existing legal frameworks.