Seven years in the making, the Travelability Accessibility Playbook, created in partnership with Destinations International, is an end-to-end toolkit to equip destination organizations on their accessibility journey, enabling them to better welcome and accommodate people with disabilities within their destination.
MOBILITY DO’S AND DON’TS
DO’S:
• Ask Before Offering Assistance: Always ask if the person needs help before providing assistance. Respect their autonomy and allow them to accept or decline assistance.
• Be Patient and Understanding: Understand that tasks may take longer for someone with mobility issues. Be patient and avoid rushing or pressuring them.
• Respect Personal Space: Respect the person’s personal space and avoid touching mobility aids or equipment without permission.
• Use Inclusive Language: Use respectful and inclusive language when referring to the person and their condition. Avoid using derogatory terms or making assumptions about their abilities.
• Offer Assistance Appropriately: If assistance is requested or needed, offer it respectfully and sensitively. Ask how you can help and follow their instructions.
• Ensure Accessibility: Make sure that the environment is accessible to individuals with mobility issues. This includes providing ramps, elevators, wide doorways, and accessible restrooms.
• Be Mindful of Physical Barriers: Be aware of physical barriers that may hinder mobility, such as stairs, uneven surfaces, or narrow doorways. Offer alternative routes or assistance as needed.
• Listen and Communicate: Listen attentively to the person and communicate clearly. If they have difficulty speaking or understanding, be patient and use alternative methods of communication if necessary.
DON’TS:
• Assume Help is Needed: Don’t assume that a person with mobility issues needs help or cannot perform tasks independently. Always ask before offering assistance.
• Use Patronizing Language: Avoid using patronizing language or speaking down to the person. Treat them with respect and dignity, just as you would any other individual.
• Touch Without Permission: Do not touch the person or their mobility aids without permission. Respect their personal space and boundaries at all times.
• Make Assumptions: Avoid making assumptions about the person’s abilities or limitations based on their mobility issues. Treat each individual as unique and capable.
• Ignore Their Preferences: Don’t ignore the person’s preferences or instructions regarding assistance. Always respect their wishes and preferences, even if they decline help.
• Overwhelm with Assistance: Avoid overwhelming the person with unnecessary assistance or taking over tasks without their consent. Allow them to maintain their independence and dignity.
• Neglect Accessibility: Do not neglect accessibility considerations in the environment or facilities. Ensure that accommodations are in place to facilitate the person’s mobility and access.
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