Physical and Environmental Factors Influencing Accessibility to Sanitation and Hygiene Services Among People Living with Disabilities in Kitui County, Kenya

Abstract

This study aimed to find out the physical and environmental factors influencing accessibility to sanitation and hygiene services among PLWD in Kitui County, Kenya. The study employed a cross sectional survey method. Disability status varied, with 44.2% having physical/mobility disabilities, 34.4% with visual disabilities, and 21.4% with hearing disabilities. In terms of physical and environmental factors, 95.6% had access to latrines, Improved pit latrines were the most common (52.3%). 93.3% reported sufficient space inside latrines, challenges included slippery floors (28.2%) and limited privacy (23%). Inferential statistics, employing logistic regression, identified significant associations. The logistic regression analysis elucidated significant factors influencing hygiene and sanitation accessibility among people with disabilities in Kitui County, Kenya. Socio-economic variables, including occupation (B = -0.212, p = 0.032), income (B = -1.068, p = 0.184), and education level (B = 0.457, p < 0.001), exhibited notable associations. Physical and environmental factors, such as latrine design for people with disabilities (B = -0.566, p = 0.077), played a crucial role. This study identified substantial challenges hindering people with disabilities (PLWD) from accessing adequate sanitation and hygiene, revealing critical issues related to physical and environmental barriers.