Thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) it has become
easier for mobility challenged folks to get around but it is not yet perfect.
There are some public spaces that have been grandfathered into the act that
have not been adapted for wheelchair accessibility. As facilities are
remodeled, more and more are making the adaptation for access. Unfortunately,
non-challenged people may not be able to spot subtle barriers. A 2" step
may be too much for a small powered wheelchair or the rest rooms may be on
another level without an elevator. Some places are just too narrow or otherwise
cramped for someone to get through using a wheelchair or a walker.
Being adaptable and thinking creatively will go a long way to
overcoming these challenges. Restaurants need to get supplies in somehow, you
may find yourself coming in through the kitchen. If you can transfer or stand
briefly, you maybe able to shift to a chair at the slightly higher level while
someone lifts the wheelchair up one set of wheels at a time.
This is also the "teachable moment" for the manager or
owner of a facility. Point out the barriers as pleasantly as possible and
if you can, suggest a solution for future reference. It has been our experience
that most facilities are more than eager to help and happy to have the
feedback.
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