Accessible living in the days of COVID-19

Even though we are separated, we need each other more than ever, and technology offers us an opportunity to reach out and bond with others. Although these tips are focused on the needs of deaf and hard of hearing participants in virtual workplace meetings, many have also been tested in cross-disability meetings: Accessibility tips for a better virtual meeting experience. The American Foundation for the Blind has also assembled 5 Accessibility actions you can take when moving your conference or classes online, including tips for presenters.

This unprecedented situation calls for sensitivity and compassion, particularly for those of us who might face additional risks, consequences and anxieties. “It feels awful to hear people reassure each other that coronavirus isn’t that scary because it will mainly hurt and kill ‘high risk’ people. Remember, that’s us you are talking about, and we can hear you,” says Andrew Pulrang in Forbes’ 5 Things to know about coronavirus and people with disabilities.

While disabilities themselves do not increase the risk of contracting COVID-19, factors like behaviors, increased age and accompanying health conditions might. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Tips for Dementia Caregivers, offers advice that applies to a variety of situations. Also, another watch out for anyone who is a caregiver – the onset of Coronavirus Scams –preying on fears surrounding COVID-19.