Disability and mandatory mask wearing 

Mask wearing can be uncomfortable for everyone but is necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19 and with the recent lockdown in Western Australia over the weekend wearing a mask has now become mandatory; 

“Masks must be worn at all times outside of your place of residence, including at work, while exercising, on public transport, and in your private vehicle when other passengers are in the vehicle.” 

For people living with a disability this may be very challenging or just not possible.  

The Western Australian Government has stated; 

“Masks are not mandatory for children under 12 years of age or a person who has a physical or mental illness, condition or disability.” 

However, they do help stop the spread of COVID-19.  

We’ve put some helpful tips below to help make wearing a mask more comfortable.

The 3 P’s

• Planning 
• Practice 
• Praise 

Following the 3 P’s can help individuals on the Autism Spectrum feel more comfortable and better understand the importance of wearing a mask.

Autism Spectrum Australia have produced a great video featuring Speech Pathologist, Corinne Cribb, that helps break down the 3 P’s.

You can watch the video here.  

If you are Deaf or hard of hearing 

If you are deaf or hard of hearing you will be able to remove your mask if it is necessary to communicate The WA government has mentioned the following; 

“For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, you will be able to remove your mask, if necessary, to communicate. Writing notes, pointing or the speech to text app, where possible, are encouraged.” 

Expression Australia have a great communication toolkit available for people to use. This includes communication cards that are easy to read and could be helpful.

Wearing a Mask Fogs my Glasses up

If you combine wearing a mask with glasses, you will automatically find your glasses will constantly fog up. Many people have offered suggestions and solutions to prevent this. But the main take-away is it is all trial and error. Persist and you will succeed at having clear glasses, the Royal College of Surgeons of England have some handy tips here.