Toolbox

CALD Disability Awareness Resource

eCALD Supplementary Resources

Toolbox for working with disability in Indian cultures

  • Disability is highly stigmatised in Indian cultures, particularly amongst older generations and those with traditional cultural values. During the migration and acculturation process, stigma of disability can become heightened and entrenched. Emphasise that New Zealand has different values around disability, and provide assurances about confidentiality in healthcare.
  • People originating from rural communities may not have had access to much or any health services, or rehabilitation or disability support. Some may be familiar with, and expect traditional approaches to healthcare. New Zealand health system and health provider roles may need explanation, including why many different providers and services are involved with the family.
  • Religious and folklore beliefs about disability may deter people from seeking healthcare support, and in particular for early intervention for children. Find ways to include a family's traditional approaches as well as providing medical care and support (if the approaches are not contra-indicated).
  • Many people from larger cities, and particularly those who have had access to education, will be familiar with Western medicine and may not subscribe to traditional beliefs about disability. To avoid negative stereotyping, assess every family individually.