Analysis of the study findings

The study findings reveal key indicators on issues relating to independent living, state policies, the responsiveness of various sectors to the needs of persons with disabilities, these individuals’ perceptions of themselves and the important impact these perceptions have on their self-reliance and ability to make life decisions.

The findings are consistent with another study,[1] which revealed statistically significant differences in the level of role conflict among mothers of children with disabilities owing to the age variable. Thus, the ability of children with disabilities to be independent is linked to their guardians’ self-perception. This concept is limited to the mobility of persons with disabilities and their ability to become self-reliant in their daily activities and does not apply to their opportunities to work, start a family or care for children.

On the other hand, another study[2] indicated a high level of self-acceptance and self-reliance among students with visual impairments.[3] The study also revealed differences in self-perception between persons with disabilities and their families, as well as in how they perceived disability, the ability to be independent, the extent to which the family is able to instill the concepts of self-determination and the ability to participate and integrate.

This, in turn, is reflected in the ability of persons with disabilities to choose their place of residence and people living with them without coercion.

The findings are also consistent with a study on anxiety about the future among students with hearing impairments.[4] There are statistically significant differences between students with hearing impairments and those without any disability in terms of anxiety about the future. Anxiety levels are higher among female students with hearing disabilities compared to male students in this category, which is to be expected.

The study findings also revealed that the accessibility of public and social services to persons with disabilities was consistent with the extent to which they made use of them. This may be due to these individuals’ ability to adapt socially. The findings are consistent with a study on the adaptation of students with disabilities to university life,[5] which revealed satisfaction among the sample with the services provided to them. However, there is a pressing need to examine how social adaptation can be increased.

In contrast, the findings differ from a comparative study on the rights of children with disabilities in Omani legislation,[6] which concluded that persons with disabilities have poor access to care and rehabilitation due to the lack of a comprehensive human rights approach, although its role is crucial to achieving any progress in this area.

While previous studies may be in agreement about the ability of persons with disabilities to access services enshrined in law, in practice, disparities arise in the implementation, primarily due to several terminological obstacles. The concepts of social adaptation, public services and independent living vary across different studies, groups and institutions. Disparities also emerge in the coverage of services. Public services may be available, but for a particular group, age, or geographic area.[7] Further detailed studies are therefore needed in this field.