Socioeconomic Determinants of Housing Choice and Living Conditions among Persons with Visual Impairment in Southwestern Nigeria (Published)
The living conditions of persons with visual impairment (PVI) are shaped not only by physical limitations but also by socioeconomic realities that determine housing access and quality. This paper examines the socioeconomic characteristics of PVI and how these influence their choice of home conditions in Southwestern Nigeria. Drawing on a cross-sectional survey of visually impaired individuals across specialized schools, rehabilitation centres, and private residences in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti States, the study employed a mixed-method approach involving structured questionnaires and key-informant interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, and chi-square tests to explore the relationship between income, education, and employment status with housing adequacy and satisfaction. Findings revealed that 58% of respondents were within the economically active age of 30–49 years, 61% were male, and 54% had at least secondary education. Income disparities were pronounced: 47% earned below ₦70,000 monthly, constraining access to quality housing. A significant correlation (χ² = 21.43, p < 0.01) was found between educational attainment and housing adequacy, while income strongly predicted the ability to retrofit or maintain accessible home features. The study concludes that socioeconomic inequality remains a major barrier to inclusive housing for the visually impaired and recommends targeted subsidies, inclusive design policies, and adaptive housing programmes to promote autonomy and well-being.
Keywords: Housing Adequacy, Southwestern Nigeria, Visual impairment, inclusive design, socioeconomic status