5 things you need to know about accessibility for the disabled

CDRNYS

5 things you need to know about accessibility for the disabled

By Melody Burri, staff writer
Messenger Post
Posted May 07, 2011 @ 12:03 AM

Victor, N.Y. — Since the creation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, views, attitudes, and practices pertaining to the disabled have changed dramatically. Public buildings and businesses are systematically removing barriers and rolling out the red carpet for everyone, regardless of their challenges.

“People are much more courteous and accommodating towards the needs of the disabled (these days), but occasionally you encounter a situation where someone has slipped through the cracks,” said Victor resident Tom Turner, who has depended on his wheelchair to get him literally everywhere for most of his life.

Not every destination is readily accessible, he said, and in some cases, even a minor tweak could make all the difference in whether or not a person with a disability is welcomed, or excluded.

“At that point you have to be a great deal more resourceful and careful in choosing where, and where not to go,” said Turner. “You hate to think that a certain portion of the world is still ‘roped off’ but sometimes its just a fact of life.”

Turner’s message is basic, and hopefully a call-out to area business owners.

“I simply want to spread awareness that individuals with disabilities, like myself, can continue to be active, hard working, and hard playing citizens of the world,” he said.

Here are some of his suggestions. Visit the Rochester Center for Disability Rights at www.cdrnys.org for more.

Access hallways for public rest rooms tend to be narrow, and if doors swing out and to the right, navigating can be quite difficult and time-consuming. Solution — widen hallways or alter the way doors swing, or both.
Restaurant tables are often too low to accommodate a wheelchair. If a person can’t slide their legs and chair underneath the table, they probably won’t enjoy the meal comfortably. Solution — raise table heights, if not on all tables, at least on some.
Snow-covered entrances to public and private buildings present a significant barrier for someone in a wheelchair, especially if they are traveling solo. Solution — Keep in mind that even an inch or two of snow matters. Make sure entrances and exits are clear during business hours.
Limited amounts of accessible parking at local events like festivals, concerts, and fairs can be a significant problem. Likewise is the overuse of handicapped parking passes by those who may have a relative with a disability. Solution — clear and ample parking signage is a must, followed by patrolling and ticketing of violators. Anything that will educate the public about the urgency and significance of accessible parking for all will make a huge difference.