Self-reported handwashing and surface disinfection behaviors by U.S. adults with disabilities to prevent COVID-19, Spring 2020.
NaTasha D Hollis, JoAnn M Thierry, Amanda G Garcia-Williams
PMID 33896737WHAT IT FOUND
Most U.S. adults with disabilities reported frequent handwashing (91.3%) and surface disinfection (72.0%).
Handwashing rates were significantly lower than in adults without disabilities (94.0%). Surface disinfection rates were similar between groups. Vision and independent living disabilities had the lowest adherence.
Key findings
01Adults with any disability reported frequent handwashing at a significantly lower rate (91.3%) than adults without disabilities (94.0%).
02There was no significant difference in frequent surface disinfection between adults with disabilities (72.0%) and those without.
03People with vision and independent living disabilities were significantly less likely to report both frequent handwashing and frequent surface disinfection compared to those without disabilities.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTsWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The study relies on self-reported data, which is subject to reporting bias from social desirability. The survey did not ask about the use of hand sanitizer, which could have displaced handwashing behavior in some groups. Participants were selected from an internet panel, which may not fully represent the general U.S. population, particularly those without internet access or institutionalized individuals. Small sample sizes within specific disability subgroups stratified by demographics may weaken the stability of data estimates. The study does not explain the reasons for the observed differences in hygiene behaviors, limiting actionable insights beyond identifying the disparity.
Declared interests
The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. The research did not receive specific grant funding.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume that lower reported handwashing rates equate to higher infection risk or poor compliance in a clinical setting. The study did not measure hand sanitizer use, which may have been the preferred method for many participants, nor did it assess the severity of disability or environmental barriers that might make frequent handwashing difficult to perform.