Exploring persons with disabilities preparedness, perceptions and experiences of disasters in Tuvalu

Abstract

Background Historically, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) are disproportionately affected by disasters. In Pacific Island Countries (PICs), the risks and vulnerabilities of PwDs arise from social inequalities, as well as environmental barriers. As the frequency and intensity of disasters will increase over the next decade, it is critical that the challenges faced by PwDs are addressed and that they are prepared. Objective This study explores disaster preparedness, perceptions, and experiences with disasters among PwDs in Tuvalu. Methods This qualitative study was carried out among people with physical and sensory disabilities and without post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), who are aged 21 and above. Using grounded theory methodology, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 participants, with 7 then participating in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD). Results A total of 31 PwDs participated, of which 65% were male and 35% female, with a mean age of 44 ±15.70. The results showed how the PwDs ability to prepare, their perceptions, and experiences with disasters have contributed to their resilience to disasters. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of understanding PwDs lived disaster experience to improve their preparedness and resilience for future disasters. This knowledge will assist government and non-government organisations, communities, and families to develop policies and plans that will enhance the preparedness of PwDs for disasters.

A health promotion approach to emergency management: effective community engagement strategies from five cases

“…In this regard, the call to include hard to reach populations, women leaders, people with disabilities, and minorities in preparedness and response planning is getting louder. Understanding their perspectives and including them in intervention planning and delivery is critical to addressing effectively the complexity and diversity of health emergencies, disasters and humanitarian crises ( De Weger et al , 2020 ; Elisala et al , 2020 ; Patel et al , 2020 ).…”

A Meta-Synthesis on the Experiences of Persons with Disabilities towards Disaster Preparedness

“…The concluding set of 18 studies comprised twelve (12) journal articles, four (4) research reports, one (1) dissertation, and one (1) book. The researches used were conducted in Asia (12), Australia (3), Oceania (2), and Africa (2). Data were collected and analyzed using thematic analysis.…”

“…During the Tuvalu disaster, some participants felt that information supplied to PwDs should be adapted to their relationship and disability, especially for physically challenged, deaf, and blind individuals. For PwDs, incorrect details or improper communication might be difficult and confusing (Elisala et al, 2020).…”

Examining Factors Influencing Protective Actions Among Persons with Disabilities During the December 10–11, 2021, Tornado Outbreak in the United States

“…2 Furthermore, people with disabilities disproportionately experience poverty and a lack of social support, which limit their access to life-saving resources during a disaster. 3 As a result, individuals with disabilities are more likely to die in disasters, be separated from family members, and suffer injuries or health-related complications. 4 Taken together, these factors may disproportionately place this population at increased risk for life-threatening situations during tornado hazards.…”

“…One in 4 American adults, or 61 million people, live with a disability that impacts major life activities, including hearing, vision, cognition, mobility, self-care, and independent living. 6 While prior research has examined the evacuation process of individuals with disabilities during hurricanes, 3 very little empirical research has focused on persons with disabilities facing tornado hazards. 2 The current study examined factors hypothesized to influence protective actions among a sample of participants with disabilities who experienced tornado threats on December [10][11]2021.…”