The COVID-19 virus is taking a disproportionate toll on our most vulnerable population. The New York times, in a recent  article,  reported that, as of Monday, April 7, 1,100 of the 140,000 people with developmental disabilities had tested positive for the virus; 105 people had died. 

This rate is much higher than in the general population and  similar to the toll in some nursing homes. New York Disability Advocates similarly reported that residents of group homes and similar facilities in New York City and surrounding areas were 5.34 times more likely than the general population to develop Covid-19 and 4.86 times more likely to die from it. What's more, nearly 10 percent of the homes' residents were displaying Covid-like symptoms but had not yet been tested, according to the consortium. National news  reports  indicate even more concerns.

OPWDD Guidelines

To assist, the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) has released guidance  documents to staff and voluntary provider agencies regarding visitation and quarantine protocols at their facilities. Yet the guidance had proven ineffective to protect individuals, as the system is inherently flawed due to a shortage of qualified workers, insufficient supplies and not enough monitoring. 

In this crisis, it is even more challenging, as due to the state of emergency, most facilities limit or preclude family member visits. Most family members can only bring their loved ones home, if they are willing to agree to an indefinite and uncertain date of return. Due to the New York State of emergency, unfortunately, certain OPWDD regulations may have been temporarily suspended, such as increased flexibility on written treatment plans for individuals. It is important for family members to monitor situations as closely possible.

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