Disaster preparedness for people with developmental disabilities: Occupational therapy provides a path to readiness

Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) can play a critical role in disaster preparedness for individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) and their families. Disasters, whether natural or human-made, can have devastating effects on lives and communities. It is essential to address the specific needs, abilities, and limitations of individuals with DD in emergency planning to ensure their safety and well-being (Subramaniam & Villeneuve, 2020). In collaboration with other professionals and organizations, OTPs can contribute to the IADL of safety and emergency maintenance, including disaster response and risk reduction efforts, promoting community resilience and positive well-being through meaningful engagement in occupation (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2017; World Federation of Occupational Therapists [WFOT], 2014).