THE EXPERIENCES OF PEOPLE WITH MOTOR DISABILITIES IN THE GREATER BUENOS AIRES: SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS AND SOCIAL NETWORKS

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze the experiences of adults over age 50 with motor disabilities residing in the
GBA, in relation to their social networks and socioeconomic factors. A qualitative approach was performed and
39 disabled people were interviewed. Respondents showed that the consequences of living with a disability are
not unique but change according to socioeconomic status and social networks, which depends o the limitations
imposed on their bodies. The places they occupy in the physical space correspond to their disadvantaged
position in the social space and reflect social inequities suffered. Also, social networking depends on the
places their bodies inhabit: the urban space hinders this links on their possibility to expand and sustain.