Providing accessible spaces is a moral imperative and a strategic investment, expert says

From cognitive impairments to sensory sensitivities, the need for accessibility in public and commercial spaces is evolving beyond physical mobility to a much wider spectrum of challenges.

This lack of accessibility not only limits individuals’ ability to fully participate in society but also represents a significant missed economic opportunity, says policy expert Sunil Johal, vice-president of public policy at the Canadian Standards Association, which develops technical and management standards for the private and public sectors.

While legal requirements provide some foundation for accessibility in private and public spaces, designers are realizing true inclusivity requires a shift in perspective – an empathetic approach that considers the diverse needs and experiences of all community members and how they can best interact with their environment.

“We often think about following building codes and making entryways accessible but what about ensuring comfort and experience of place in that accessibility? How do we make sure people are truly represented and have access to the same idea of a place?” says Jeffrey Craft, principal urban designer and landscape architect for STUDIO tla in Toronto.

“We see this as not just a remedial experience but an opportunity to create something wonderful,” Mr. Craft says. Currently 25 per cent complete, with the first phase launched in 2022, the community also integrates design features that assist individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease to navigate their surroundings more easily. Colour-coded buildings, frequent unique landmarks and features such as traffic roundabouts aid in navigation, while enhancing pedestrian safety.

Source: News Formal (newsformal.com)

Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Providing accessible spaces is a moral imperative and a strategic investment, expert saysSpending by Canadians with disabilities is set to rise to $316-billion in 2030, report shows
Source: globeandmail - 🏆 5. / 92 Read more »

Magna reports Q1 profit down from year ago, takes charge related to FiskerTORONTO — Magna International Inc. says its first-quarter profit fell compared with a year ago as it recorded US$316 million in asset impairments and...
Source: YahooFinanceCA - 🏆 47. / 63 Read more »

Ottawa will stop providing COVID-19 rapid tests to regionsHealth Canada does not recommend using expired COVID-19 rapid tests.
Source: CBC - 🏆 32. / 63 Read more »

The story of Weir Furniture Centre: From cutting ice to providing home furnishingsNearly 80 years ago, the Weir family was cutting out ice to deliver to the community; now a landmark name, it continues to service the people of Sault. Ste. Marie for their furniture needs.
Source: SooToday - 🏆 8. / 85 Read more »

Province providing $9.2M to the city for homelessness preventionOver $9M is being spread between four agencies in the city to help combat homelessness.
Source: tbnewswatch - 🏆 75. / 51 Read more »

Federal government providing $104M to help Toronto host six 2026 World Cup gamesThe federal government will provide the city of Toronto with $104 million to help host six matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Source: BNNBloomberg - 🏆 83. / 50 Read more »