COVID-19 has had a significant impact on disability rights, shedding light on the existing neglect toward this community. The pandemic has disproportionately affected disabled individuals, and it has also created a new group of people with disabilities. Stories like Michael’s have emerged, highlighting the ableism that exists within healthcare systems. Michael, a 46-year-old Black man, suffered a heart attack and was left disabled. When he developed a COVID-19 infection, the hospital decided to deny him care due to his disability and race. This discrimination resulted in Michael being moved from the intensive care unit to hospice care, ultimately limiting his chances of survival. Unfortunately, there are numerous similar stories like Michael’s, indicating the systemic issues faced by disabled individuals.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 3 million people over the age of 18 with disabilities have come forward during the COVID-19 pandemic, and more are expected to follow. Disabled individuals have faced various challenges during this time, including inadequate healthcare, difficulties in navigating COVID-19 restrictions, and exclusion from rights-based protections. Issues such as the constant wearing of masks for those who are hard of hearing, lack of access to personal protective equipment, and limited assistance for daily tasks have made life more challenging for disabled individuals.
Furthermore, disabled individuals struggle with societal intolerance and face poverty at nearly twice the rate of their nondisabled counterparts. The existing assistance for disabled people, such as Supplemental Security Income, falls short in providing meaningful financial security. The lengthy wait for qualifying for Medicare insurance coverage adds further struggles for disabled individuals. Additionally, the emergence of long COVID has led to long-term disabilities, with limited medical research available on the consequences and treatments for these conditions.
To address these issues, there is a need for increased awareness and support for disabled individuals. Organizations like the World Institute on Disability and The Arc are working to advocate for disability rights and raise awareness of the challenges faced by this community. Education on long COVID and its potential long-term effects is crucial to ensure timely recognition and appropriate care for those affected. It is essential for society to recognize the rights and needs of disabled individuals, promoting inclusivity and equality for all.