A Study on  Disability and Covid-19: Moving Toward the New Normal

Author – Rishika Khemka,  STUDENT at SYMBIOSIS LAW SCHOOL,  NAGPUR

Best Citation – Rishika Khemka, A Study on Disability and Covid-19: Moving Toward the New Normal, Law and Social Policy Review, 1 (1) of 2023, Pg. 67-72, ISBN – 978-81-960677-7-9.

ABSTRACT

Whilst COVID-19 pandemic affects all parts of society, those with disabilities are adversely affected owing to attitudinal, environmental, and institutional barriers that are replicated in the COVID-19 response. Numerous people with disabilities possess pre-existing health issues that make them more prone to getting the virus, resulting in more severe symptoms and an increased risk of death. During the COVID-19 crisis, people with disabilities(PWDs) who rely on support for their everyday living could find themselves secluded and unable to survive during the lockdown period, Those living in institutions, on the other hand, are extremely susceptible, as seen by the high frequency of deaths in residential care homes and mental asylums. Access to health care and information for people with impairments is becoming more difficult. Specific categories of disabled people, such as convicts and people who are homeless or lack proper shelter, face much greater risks. The availability of health care and information for people with disability is becoming more difficult. Persons with disabilities continue to encounter discrimination and other difficulties in gaining access to livelihood and income support, engaging in online education, and seeking safety from violence.

This study investigates the impact of COVID-19 on disabled people in a broader context, as well as the critical role that numerous disability organisations performed in assisting disabled people throughout the pandemic. As a result, it was thought that there was a need to comprehend the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lives of people with disabilities, their care and support systems, nutrition, livelihoods, social engagement, mental health, and access to health and education services.

Keywords: Disability, COVID-19, Attitudinal Barriers, PWDs, Environmental Barriers