COVID-19 creating more challenges for the blind in Barbados

As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread in communities, the National United Society of the Blind is concerned about its members being at some of the isolation facilities, as all healthcare workers may not be equipped to deal with the visually impaired. In addition to training, infrastructure could also be an issue.

This is the belief of public relations officer of the organization, Alinda Brathwaite. She says touch remains the blind’s connection to the world, even in a pandemic. And as World Sight Day is celebrated across the globe today, she notes that there is a need for greater sight-guides for the blind in public places.

The disabled community has also welcomed the use of home isolation, as it allows those living with disabilities to stay within their environment. She adds that this may not always be feasible however, as some members of the community do not live alone, which could present a range of challenges.

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