How pandemic restrictions impact the disability community

The I-squared crew discusses the many ways the pandemic guidelines and restrictions affect people with disabilities.

Discussion Summary

00:14: Raven addresses how masks create additional difficulties for disabled people.

9:19: Ways to accommodate people struggling to communicate with others wearing masks.

10:51: How occupancy limits, distancing markers, and barriers at service counters in businesses impact people who are blind.

17:26: Olivia talks about the struggle for disabled people to interact with signage on businesses and distancing markers.

26:49: additional challenges created by adjusted business hours, hours for high risk individuals, and curbside service only.

31:24: Problems with public transportation, rideshare services, and paratransit implementing safety guidelines.

38:06: Lakeria shares some advantages to the trend toward work-from-home positions.

41:24: Members of the public crossing physical boundaries trying to be “helpful,” without consideration for safety guidelines.

43:16: Outtro.

References:

COVID-19: Face Masks and People with Disabilities

Masks for the Blind During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This woman is making masks more accessible for people with hearing loss

Challenges of Wearing Face Masks with SPD/ASD

Wearing of face masks can trigger trauma for some

COVID-19: Risks and Challenges for the Visually Impaired

Five ways social distancing signage is not accessible – and how to fix them

COVID-19 Has Been 'Apocalyptic' for Public Transit.

Coronavirus could revolutionize work opportunities for people with disabilities

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