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JDR Vol.17 No.1 pp. 103-112
(2022)
doi: 10.20965/jdr.2022.p0103

Note:

Impact of COVID-19 on the Employment of and Employment Support for People with Disabilities

Kaede Morimoto*1,*2,†, Junko Hoshii*3, Chito Masuda*4, Kana Endo*5, Akiko Sahira*6, Kayano Yotsumoto*2, and Takeshi Hashimoto*2

*1Kansai University of Health Sciences
2-11-1 Kumatoricho Wakaba, Sennangun, Osaka 590-0482, Japan

Corresponding author

*2Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hyogo, Japan

*3Hyogo Prefecture – Hyogo Mental Health Center, Hyogo, Japan

*4Arima Kougen Clinic, Hyogo, Japan

*5Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan

*6Heisei Rehabilitation College, Hyogo, Japan

Received:
October 15, 2021
Accepted:
December 17, 2021
Published:
January 30, 2022
Keywords:
COVID-19, employment and employment support, people with disabilities, mental health
Abstract

The spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) has had a significant impact on the working population. Companies have been forced to respond to their employees and improve their work environment. In addition to the impact on able-bodied people, there has been a significant one on the employment of people with disabilities. This study reviews the current employment status of people with disabilities during COVID-19 and discusses the changes therein and the role of supporters in light of the changes in work styles during the pandemic. The results of the review indicate that natural disasters such as infectious diseases are difficult to predict, and concrete measures must be taken daily to maintain the safety and security of people with disabilities. People with schizophrenia especially need to prepare in normal times, since not only cognitive functions but also psychological factors will affect their acquisition of skills. Based on the characteristics of disabilities, it is crucial to support people with disabilities in normal times for them to act independently in times of disaster. Considering that natural disasters caused by infectious diseases will continue to occur, we should prepare for remote employment, training, mental health care counseling, and response during ordinary times to protect people with disabilities, along with their supporters, assuming that they may become victims.

Cite this article as:
K. Morimoto, J. Hoshii, C. Masuda, K. Endo, A. Sahira, K. Yotsumoto, and T. Hashimoto, “Impact of COVID-19 on the Employment of and Employment Support for People with Disabilities,” J. Disaster Res., Vol.17 No.1, pp. 103-112, 2022.
Data files:
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Last updated on Oct. 01, 2024