To analyze how sociodemographic and occupational factors influence the perception of disability in Maya communities, with a focus on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
A cross-sectional study conducted between June and December 2022 in 16 rural locations in Yucatan evaluated disability in a sample of 1,049 participants using the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS). Descriptive analyses and non-parametric tests were performed to characterize the sample and WHODAS scores.
The participants' mean age was 39.26 ± 17.87, and significant differences in disability perception were observed in relation to COVID-19 diagnosis. Diagnosed individuals reported higher levels of disability in the domains of cognition and community participation (p 0.05). Age strongly influenced disability (p 0.05). Additionally, education was negatively associated with disability, suggesting that individuals with lower education were more likely to develop high disability (p 0.05).
These findings contribute to the understanding of disability in the Maya rural context.
Project Implications:
Physiotherapy Practice: The finding that education levels and COVID-19 diagnosis are associated with higher disability levels suggests that physiotherapists working in these communities should tailor their interventions. Specifically, strategies should focus on cognitive rehabilitation and improving community participation, especially for those diagnosed with COVID-19 or with lower education levels.
Physiotherapy Management: These results can inform community-based rehabilitation programs that prioritize older individuals or those with low education, as they are more likely to report higher disability levels. This would require better resource planning and allocation in rural rehabilitation services.
Education: In physiotherapy education, it is essential to include training on how to assess disabilities by considering sociocultural and demographic factors. The focus on rural communities and the impact of COVID-19 could be integrated into the curriculum for future physiotherapists, preparing them to work in diverse contexts.
Health Policy: The study results indicate a need for health policies that address educational disparities and access to healthcare services in rural areas. Policies could focus on preventing disabilities related to COVID-19 and improving access to rehabilitation services for vulnerable groups.
Disability Evaluation
WHODAS
