Coping - Special Needs (physical)

Due to the nature of their disablities their fears and concerns are going to be different. It may aggrevate some of their symptoms and increase their risk of preoccupations and unhealthy coping. Knowing how to address their concerns and fears, along with proper planning can help tthem feel safe, secure, and confident in their ability to overcome what has happened.

Be aware of and accepting of their fears - namely that of being alone.

Physical disabilities:  They’re biggest concerns will be safety and mobility, this is where your emergency plan really helps to prepare them, therefore review it often, drills will be of greater importance to them and those who will be helping them. When entering unfamiliar territory they will need a clear and simple explanation and if needed physical descriptions as well so they can feel safe.

Vision: They will miss facial cues and verbal images. Provide lots of details explanations to reinforce what they have heard. Ask questions about what they know, it needs to be a conversation. Mobility and safety will be of greater concern to them after and additional practice and orientation maybe necessary.

Hearing: They will not be able to keep up with the all the talking, provide frequent explanations. Understand that they will be frustrated by an inability to keep up with the communication happening around them, explain new terminology (this is why education is so valuable beforehand). Be concrete and simple, and check for understanding. Visuals maybe needed with explanations.

Total communication: Keep a signer close by. They need to know someone will be there to help them. Darkness and poor lighting are going to impact their ability to communicate, be sure to have a head lamp to keep hands free for communication. Assure them that they will be safe and inform them of each step and where they are or are going.