Independent living is a life-altering experience that allows for self-growth. By implementing Universal Design (UD) elements into public and private spaces, the opportunity to live independently expands for individuals with disabilities. 

Nearly fifty years after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act went into effect, Americans with disabilities are still fighting for the same rights and opportunities as their peers. Health disparities affect minorities across America every day. 

Whether exploring the heart of a city, strolling through a renowned park, or navigating a new transportation system in an uncharted environment—these experiences define our adventures when traveling abroad. For the disabled community, these encounters can present unique challenges in urban landscapes, restricting them from the joys of venturing into new places. Yet, globally, strides are being made to create inclusive environments by successfully implementing tactile walking surfaces. 

Traveling by plane as a wheelchair user can be tricky when navigating security, boarding your flight, layovers, and everything else that comes with getting on an airplane. And, not many resources exist to guide wheelchair users on ways to plan for the experience and avoid any challenges. Here are four tips to make traveling by plane with a wheelchair easier!

Discrimination, stigma, and stereotyping are just some of the challenges that disabled people face every single day. Beyond this viewpoint problem that society has, individuals with disabilities often struggle with a built environment that excludes them from everyday activities. So, don't you think it's high time that we change our lens on disability?

To transform into an all-inclusive society, we need to address the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. The change will come only when we work hand in hand with the disabled community to break down these hurdles.

A workplace benefits from a diverse team because different experiences and backgrounds can provide new ideas, optimized processes, and more inclusivity.

The meaning of ‘diversity’ may vary for different individuals. It’s important to consider the fact that diversity is not confined to race, sexual orientation, and gender.

The meaning of true diversity stretches far beyond these classifications. Still, while planning their diversity strategies, employers tend to overlook people with disabilities. This results in an inaccessible workplace for such individuals.

The best way to interact with people who have disabilities is to see them the way they see themselves, which can definitely be a challenge as we exist in our own minds. Take cues from the person with disabilities. If they demonstrate a high level of independence, then don’t try to do things for them or “baby” them in any way.

If a person with disabilities requests assistance, then help. In either case, you allow them to showcase how they wish to be treated.

Here are some simple yet effective ways to empower those with disabilities.

The major barrier to communication with people with hearing loss is often the lack of consideration by others. For successful and effective communication, all parties need to be aware and considerate.

Even if a person uses a hearing aid, others taking part in the conversation must use valuable communication strategies.

Individuals with disabilities must navigate a world designed for people with vision and mobility, and one tool that helps to make the world more accessible is navigational bar tiles. These directional tile surfaces consist of raised bars that align with the direction of pedestrian travel. These navigational directional bar tiles help people to locate the entrance to light rails, trains, and bus stops.

A companion to detectable warning tiles, navigational and directional bar tiles serve an essential purpose of guiding individuals with disabilities in the flow of traffic.

Traveling with a disability comes with unique opportunities and challenges, often requiring more research to find the best disability travel tips. No one should have to stay home due to a permanent or temporary condition. In fact, accessible travel is on the rise.

The travel industry offers more services and accommodations than ever before to individuals with impairments. With the internet on hand, individuals with disabilities often travel and share their own tips for getting around and exploring the world.