Activity and participation at home and in the community for individuals using lower limb prostheses : A qualitative study conducted in Kiribati

Abstract: Background: Kiribati has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world. A major consequence of diabetes is amputation which creates a demand for prosthetic and orthotic services. It is well established that people with amputations who do not have access to a prosthesis experience difficulties with their mobility and participation in society. Aim: To describe activity and participation at home and in the community for individuals who have received a lower limb prosthesis in Kiribati. Method: This study is based on qualitative interviews using a semi-structured approach with seven participants from Kiribati who have been fitted with lower-limb prostheses. Recorded interviews were performed. Results: The study yielded two main categories which led to the participants becoming more independent: the effect of mobility and the importance of relationships. Conclusion: Activity and participation increased in individuals who use a prosthesis as a result of diabetes type 2, compared to those who do not use a prosthesis. Prosthetic use contributes to increased mobility, which affects activity and participation, in turn leading to greater satisfaction in life. Caution should be taken with regard to these conclusions because the gender distribution did not meet the requirements for variation, making it difficult to generalize the results to the population.