Creating value that changes lives:online communities for the disabled or chronically unwell
Year: 2011
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: People who suffer chronic illness or significant disability often find it difficult to participate in normal neighbourhood community life. Both the sufferer and their carers and family lose contact with neighbours, friends and the workplace and are unable to participate meaningfully. This study uses qualitative methods to examine online health communities for people suffering from two degenerative neurological diseases, Parkinson’s Disease and Motor Neuron Disease and finds that participants in these online communities are creating peer-to-peer value through social capital exchange and a vibrant exchange of social support. The study finds that participation in online health communities can provide opportunities to significantly improve the lives of people who are disabled or chronically unwell.
Author: D'Alessandro, Steven
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7133012862