Mothers' Experiences of a Women's Health and Empowerment Program for Mothers of a Child with a Disability

Abstract

Substantial research identifies mothers of children with a disability as a vulnerable group with compromised health outcomes and restrictions for their own self-care, social, economic and leisure participation. This study investigated perceptions and experiences of mothers following attendance at health education and empowerment workshops (Healthy Mothers Healthy Families). Mixed methods evaluated mothers' experiences. A pragmatic qualitative approach was applied to data analysis of interviews with mothers (N = 19). Four themes emerged: Changes for me; Changes for my family; Wisdom gained; and Worthwhile workshops. Mothers described feeling validated and empowered in this facilitated group intervention and valued education about women's health, tailored research findings, individualised goal setting, time to learn and share with other mothers, and the workshop environment.

Keywords: Carers; Children with disability; Health promotion; Mental health; Mothers of children with a disability; Women’s health.