Caught in-between: tensions experienced by community mobility scooter users. Issue 10 (21st October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jang, Sharon; Mortenson, W. Ben; Hurd, Laura; Kirby, R. Lee
• Is Part Of: Disability & society. Volume 35:Issue 10(2020)
• Page Start: 1577
• Page End: 1595
• Publication Date: 2020-10-21
• Subjects: Mobility scooter -- community -- barriers; People with disabilities -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; Special education -- Periodicals; Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; 362.4
• DOI: 10.1080/09687599.2019.1696749
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0968-7599

Abstract

Abstract: The use of mobility scooters is becoming more common due to their effectiveness, social acceptability, and cost. A variety of benefits have been associated with scooter use, including increased mobility, social participation, confidence, and sense of independence; however, scooter users frequently encounter barriers in their communities. This study employed interpretive description to explore the everyday experiences of scooter users as they navigate the social and physical world. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants (10 men and 10 women), aged 40 to 86 years. Our analysis identified a single overarching theme, experiencing liminality, which referred to the ambiguous status of mobility scooters and their users. This ambiguity arose from the participants' a) ambulatory status and perceived cognitive capacity ; b) difficulties fitting into the built environment ; and c) experiences of negotiating the social environment . We discuss our findings in light of theorizing about liminality and the social model of disability.