Psychosocial crisis management: Assisting sensory-impaired individuals in case of disasters.

Background: Psychosocial crisis management interventions do not sufficiently consider visually impaired and deaf individuals. There are difficulties in accessing the available interventions, and the effectiveness of these interventions seems questionable. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities build on the premises of the inclusive participation in psychosocial intervention after disasters.

Objective: The objective of this study is to provide recommendations for psychosocial intervention for sensory-impaired individuals after disasters and to raise awareness for professionals working in the field of psychotraumatology.

Methods: A qualitative analysis of semistructured expert interviews and focus groups with professionals in psychotraumatology and sensory-impaired individuals was conducted. This research took place within the European Network for Psychosocial Crisis Management: Assisting Disabled in Case of Disaster (EUNAD), which is funded by the European Commission.

Results: There is a need for specific knowledge about how to meet the needs of individuals with sensory loss in order to provide psychosocial crisis management after a disaster. This aspect is not included in the existing psychosocial interventions.

Conclusion: The EUNAD recommendations are a start to fulfill the obligation to include sensory-impaired individuals in preparations for disaster interventions.