Exploring the Perception of Quality of Life of Polio Survivors in Northwest Nigeria

Consequences of paralytic polio may adversely affect the quality of life of polio survivors. Promotion of quality of life is the ultimate goal of rehabilitation intervention. Researchers typically employ various operationalisations to evaluate quality of life among polio survivors. It is unclear whether this approach reflects what quality of life truly means to polio survivors in northwest Nigeria. To explore the perception and relevant domains of quality of life, based on the perspectives of polio survivors in northwest Nigeria. We conducted eight focus group discussions with 48 polio survivors, 27 men and 21 women. We analyzed the transcribed data based on content analysis and constant comparison, with the aid of NVivo, a qualitative data analysis program. Polio survivors in this study perceived quality of life as a complex, multifaceted construct. Based on their lived experiences, the participants characterized quality of life as a blend of satisfaction of needs, happiness, spirituality, and self-perception. Spirituality and self-perception are important aspects of quality of life of polio survivors in northwest Nigeria. However, contents of instruments applied to this group of individuals rarely mirror these perspectives. Hence, measurement of quality of life of polio survivors in northwest Nigeria and similar context needs to consider and reflect spirituality and self-perception.