title: Decoding the Miss Daisy Syndrome: an examination of subjective responses to mobility change.
abstract: The subjective responses associated with personal life space and mobility status were explored. Thirty individuals participated in focus groups based on self-rated disability status, current places visited, and availability. Qualitative analyses revealed that most participants equated personal mobility with driving a vehicle. Attitudes concerning mobility status and preparedness for change varied based on disability level and personal experience. Fear of dependence from future mobility loss was prominent in all groups. Few participants acknowledged significant planning for future retirement from driving or other mobility challenges. An understanding of common attitudes, perceptions and meanings can inform professionals who intervene and support older adults experiencing mobility changes.
authors.affiliation: University of Missouri-St. Louis, 63121–4400, USA. kingma@umsl.edu
authors.forename: M Denise
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: King
authors.forename: Thomas M
authors.initials: TM
authors.lastname: Meuser
authors.forename: Marla
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Berg-Weger
authors.forename: John T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Chibnall
authors.forename: Annie C
authors.initials: AC
authors.lastname: Harmon
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Yakimo
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001334:Automobile Driving / Q000523:psychology; D051341:Dependent Ambulation / Q000523:psychology*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D018434:Sickness Impact Profile; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors