Disaster Preparedness for All: Addressing Accessibility Gaps for People with Disabilities in the U.S.

• In Event: Preparation to Create Resilience

Abstract

While disaster preparedness and response have gained increased attention in recent years, the experiences of people with disabilities remain significantly underrepresented in both research and policy. As one of the most vulnerable populations during emergencies, individuals with disabilities often face compounded challenges in accessing, navigating, and benefiting from disaster preparedness resources. Although government and community-based programs exist to provide support, questions remain about the accessibility, clarity, and practical effectiveness of these resources.

This study explored how adults with disabilities perceived and engaged with disaster preparedness and response systems in the United States. It aimed to identify the specific barriers they encountered, evaluate the sufficiency and usability of existing resources, and assess how institutional and technological structures either enabled or hindered inclusive disaster planning. By foregrounding the lived experiences of people with disabilities, this research sought to uncover systemic gaps and propose pathways toward more equitable emergency management practices.

Using a qualitative design, we conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 25 adults with a range of disabilities, including physical, sensory, cognitive, and mental health conditions. Participants were recruited through a snowball sampling strategy, drawing on the second author’s professional and personal networks within the disability community. Interviews were conducted remotely via Zoom or phone, depending on participants’ preferences and accessibility needs. Each session lasted approximately 45 to 60 minutes and focused on participants’ past experiences with emergency alerts, evacuation procedures, shelter access, communication systems, and interactions with public and nonprofit agencies. All interviews were audio-recorded with consent, professionally transcribed, and analyzed thematically using MAXQDA.

Findings revealed that while disaster preparedness materials are widely available, they are often inaccessible in format or content, particularly for individuals with sensory or cognitive impairments. Participants reported difficulties locating timely, disability-specific information and described a heavy reliance on informal networks, family members, or self-advocacy to compensate for systemic gaps. Technological platforms for alerts and preparedness guidance were frequently cited as inadequate due to incompatible formats or lack of accommodations, such as screen reader compatibility or plain language explanations.

Additionally, participants expressed concerns about limited physical accessibility in emergency shelters, a lack of individualized support plans, and inadequate training among emergency personnel to address disability-related needs. Institutional preparedness was perceived as reactive rather than proactive, with few efforts made to engage people with disabilities in planning or evaluation processes. Despite these barriers, many participants demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness, often developing their own preparedness strategies in the absence of inclusive public support.

This study contributes to the growing body of literature on inclusive disaster risk reduction by providing empirical evidence of the accessibility gaps experienced by people with disabilities. It underscores the importance of involving people with disabilities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of emergency preparedness policies. Our findings support a shift toward universal design principles and cross-sector collaboration to ensure that disaster preparedness systems are not only available but also usable and responsive to all members of society. Inclusive preparedness is not just a legal or moral obligation—it is a critical component of effective emergency management.

Author

• Suyang Yu, University of Illinois, Springfield
  Presenting Author