While it’s clear that COVID-19 has changed life as we know it, it’s unclear just how much it’s impacting certain demographics, such as individuals with disabilities. Initial research reveals that the pandemic has increased psychological distress across the board. Physical distancing and economical impacts have their own consequences, but marginalized populations such as individuals with disabilities have even less access to supportive networks and resources.

Tactile paving, now known as detectable warning dome tiles, was first developed by Seiichi Miyake in 1965 to help people with vision impairments navigate public spaces.  Major cities and transportation networks throughout the world use detectable warning dome tiles.
 

When people think of cyclists, they don’t often consider that biking could be for men and women with disabilities. Biking can be one of the best ways for individuals for recreational activities or for commuting.

Vision loss or impairment can be caused by a number of injuries, illnesses, and more. Some cases happen gradually while others occur suddenly. In some situations, vision loss can be easily corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. But for most, vision loss is a frustrating experience for many as it dramatically changes their way of life.

Age may also play a part in vision loss, usually changes become apparent after 40 years of age.

Here are some common causes of vision loss.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) lays down a standard for businesses, public spaces, and people that encourages a level of accessibility for all individuals. This alone makes ADA compliance important. 

Residential sidewalks are located alongside a road, providing a safe walkway for pedestrians and sometimes accommodating moderate changes in the terrain.

Accessible parking spots are the key to mobility for individuals with disabilities who visit all of life’s essential businesses. From school to grocery shopping to entertainment, accessible parking means that everyone is welcome to enjoy living. But when it comes to accessible parking lots, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.

In fact, accessible parking lots often have parking that is designated for different types of vehicles. Moreover, the Americans with Disabilities Act outlines certain standards for public parking lots.

Pedestrians with disabilities are particularly at risk when it comes to street safety. As the largest minority group in the United States at 20 percent of the population, people with disabilities are still under-served—especially when it comes to pedestrian safety.

Amusement parks are meant to be fun for everyone, but that can be difficult to ensure for individuals with disabilities. Due to the public nature of amusement and theme parks, they fall under the jurisdiction of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), meaning that they must meet certain accessibility guidelines. The ADA provides standards for the creation and use of amusement rides, water rides, swimming pools, and so much more.

Believe it or not, practicing good bicycle etiquette is not only polite, but it can keep you safe as well. Road rules provide important standards that, when practiced by everyone, offer a default expectation for how other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles will respond in specific situations. If everyone follows these common guidelines, all commuters have a higher chance of safety.

Curb ramps are the solid ramp that joins the top of a sidewalk to the adjoining street level. Also known as a curb cut or dropped curb, curb ramps are primarily used by pedestrians throughout urban areas where the main mode of transportation is walking. Curb ramps facilitate easy movement from the sidewalk to the road for individuals who use mobility aids.

To help combat climate change at home, a number of options for making environmentally friendly choices in your own space exist. Every action has consequences, and your choices can influence the environment for the better.