How to Help the Developmentally Disabled Cope With Disasters

People who have a developmental disability often function reasonably well in daily life. However, they may only do this because they have an effective support system underpinning their lives. The degree and type of cognitive problem will also impact on the person's ability to cope. However, the situation changes when there is a disaster. According to Scoop Health, disabled people suffer more in a disaster. Indeed, 70 percent of the casualties of Hurricane Katrina were elderly or disabled. Developmental delays may be caused by a range of conditions, including autism and Down syndrome. Coping skills will vary --- no two people with developmental disabilities will react exactly the same. The nature of the disaster will also be relevant to how the person copes.

Instructions

• 1

  Prepare the disabled person for the eventuality of a disaster, without unduly scaring him. People with a developmental disabilities often trust people in authority. Use this to your advantage by telling him who to contact in an emergency and teaching him the number; also, teach him how to identify a member of the emergency services by uniform. Repeat this information frequently in a calm, non-threatening manner.

• 2

  Practice the evacuation procedure with the person. Encourage him to verbalize his fears. He may, for instance, have private worries that may seem trivial to others, but may affect his ability to cope with a disaster. In the case of an emergency, ensure that written instructions are at fourth-to-sixth-grade reading level. Keep commands simple, using short sentences. Do not give multiple commands, as this is likely to confuse and distress the person with a developmental disability.

• 3

  Reassure the person in the wake of the disaster, as soon as you have secured his physical safety. Be aware that people with developmental delays are particularly vulnerable in a situation like this, as rescue workers and helpers often do not understand their needs, and they may not seem a priority to them.

• 4

  Reestablish the person's routines as soon as possible. Even if this is not feasible, try to recreate some of the securities that he has lost. Even simple things, such as a particular type of food or a favorite television program, may help to settle the person after the disaster.