Impact of COVID-19 on people with disabilities around the world
What is it about?
This paper describes the impact of COVID-19 on people with disabilities, derived from surveys conducted across the globe. In the context of global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to pay attention to the needs, rights, and contextual factors that influence everyday functioning of people with disabilities, in particular children and youth. This project was conducted as part of the IAACD COVID-19 Task Force. Information from more than 17,230 participants around the world was collected.
Why is it important?
Globally, the surveys highlight that COVID-19 has negatively impacted several areas of functioning - including mental health, and human rights of people with disabilities and their families. Rapid dissemination of collected information is essential for ameliorating the impact of COVID-19 across the globe. Lessons learned from COVID-19 responses can facilitate future inclusive health emergency responses.