Stigma is best described by stereotyping, loss of social status and discrimination. The lack of hygiene creates a negative public, and self perceived stigma. No access to hygiene can impact a person’s self image, decreasing social interaction. Stigma surrounding adaptive hygiene solutions reinforces social biases and contributes to mental health challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. Many people struggle to afford these essential solutions, creating barriers to their well-being, independence, and dignity. This issue affects not only individuals but also caregivers, healthcare providers, and accessibility advocates.
There are several public health impacts that surround inaccessible hygiene, including social stigma, psychological health, physical and mental health. The systematic barriers in regards to this are discrimination, inadequate and unequal access, social bias, and cost inefficiency.