Evaluation of the report “Living Conditions among People with Activity Limitations in Zambia”

Background

The subject of this evaluation is one of a set of similar studies using the same approach, namely those of Namibia and Zimbabwe (2003) and Malawi (2004). The studies must be seen in the context of the increasing attention "disabilities" as a subject has received during the last decade, and both illustrates and tries to address the observation that despite improved quantity of studies of disability in different countries and situations, there is a lack of comparability between countries and also between studies in the same country (Mayhew 2003).
Much of the increase of studies is due to the inclusion of the subject of disability in national population censuses, with a limited number of questions on the subject. As a result of this, the quality of statistical information is often inadequate for national policy and programme needs (Department of Economic and Social Affairs 2001). The Zambia report is an example of the kind of studies that have been developed to address such policy needs.
Disability in the population is growing because of a gradually ageing in the population and a significant increase in the likelihood of chronic disabilities in the onset of natural aging. Most likely, the level of disability is far higher than what most people generally assume, because disabilities are often hidden from general public views and invisible to an outsider.

Purpose/objective

The purpose of the evaluation is to assess the statistical method and the approach used in the Living Conditions Surveys, to identify challenges and come up with appropriate recommendations.

Methodology

The evaluation is a desk study, but is also based on an interview with one of the main authors of the Zambia report. As noted the sample design and implementation are generally standard and carried out in an appropriate fashion.

Key findings

To the question if the results of the survey can be trusted, the answer is yes. The main strength in this study is the development of applicable information and data for advocacy purposes and attitude changes in Zambia. The results from this study can be considered as a good basis for a new dialog between authorities, professionals and organizations for people with disabilities. In addition it is useful for developing policies and for resource allocation purposes. The results are also very useful for development of policies in third world countries more generally.

Recommendations

There are aspects of the design of the survey that could be improved in ways that would increase the reliability and validity of the survey. Some improvements could be made with regard to the final editing of the report. In particular, the references were cited differently from chapter to chapter, which can make it difficult for an outsider to gain a good overview of the references.
In summary of the discussion on the strengths and weaknesses in the report from Zambia, this evaluation paper recommends the following improvements in future studies:
- A more specific definition of the term "disability".
- Designed based estimation.
- Improved treatment of non-response.
- Testing the consequences of using a high number of proxy respondents.