Experiencing disability in three small New Brunswick Acadian communities

Abstract

This study examines the day-to-day experiences of persons with disabilities in three small New Brunswick Acadian communities where little is known about the challenges and opportunities they face in daily life. While we can piece together a narrative from studies of rurality, its applicability is far from certain. This research examined (1) how and to what degree their needs are being met; (2) their personal and social support systems; and, (3) their message for decision makers. Analysis of 23 interviews revealed general consistency with the rurality literature and uncovered the need to more closely consider issues of gender and re-integration in disability policy.