Online survey: Communication accessibility during COVID-19

COVID-19 Research Area(s): Epidemiology & Public Health

The rapidly evolving coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is unsettling, changing daily life of people around the globe. There is a great deal of uncertainty and we are all relying on news briefs, social media, health videos and information provided electronically to ensure we have received the most current health updates. This information is being updated on an hourly basis and it is important the content reaches all Canadians. For Canadians who are Deaf, Deaf-blind, and hard of hearing, most information about COVID-19 may not be easily accessible. To better understand the extent that these communities are receiving accessible information to keep themselves and their social networks safe and healthy, adults who are Deaf, Deaf-blind, and hard of hearing will be asked to complete an online survey using a computer or mobile device (e.g., smartphone, tablet). These surveys will ask participants about:
 - the extent that information about COVID-19 is accessible and any barriers encountered
 - their level of confidence about the accuracy of the information received
 - ways that information about COVID-19 has been accessed
 - ways that access to information about COVID-19 could be improved
 - the extent that participants have been affected socially, mentally and financially by COVID and the COVID response
 - the extent that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols have influenced communication accessibility