The most common barriers to mobility include:
- Access to Medical Care
It is an unfortunate fact that people with disabilities are less likely to get routine medical care than those without disabilities. One of the reasons is that they may not be able to access doctors’ offices and clinics easily.
Accessibility is required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); your medical providers’ should have facilities that are easily accessible for you. Routine care is essential so minor issues can be detected and treated before they turn into serious, or possibly life-threatening, conditions.
- Access to Public Transportation
Both public and private transportation organizations must meet ADA requirements. These include making sure there is adequate accommodations, such as lifts, ramps, securement devices, communication devices, priority seating, and adequate time to board. In an ideal world, these features are always available. In our world, equipment may malfunction, transit staff may be untrained, and accommodations may be lacking.
- Employment Issues
The unemployment rate for people with disabilities is more than double that for those who do not have disabilities. There are, of course, many reasons for this, but certainly, access to transportation plays a role.
- Fair Housing
Securing accessible housing can be challenging; securing handicapped accessible housing that is also affordable can feel impossible. Many people with disabilities live below the federal poverty level (unemployment is one major factor).
- Awareness
Perhaps one of the most significant barriers to mobility is the lack of awareness throughout society as a whole. Those without disabilities don’t often realize how challenging it is to navigate the community when stores have stairs when ramps are not built to grade when doorways are not wide enough to accommodate power chairs when spaces do not allow movement by those with assistive devices… the list goes on and on.
While we wait for the world to catch up to the needs of those of us who are disabled, we can take action to get the services we need. Loyal Lifts is here to provide accessible, safe, and comfortable transportation for all of your needs. From medical appointments, grocery shopping, and errands to social engagements, cultural outings, and runs to and from the airport, we are here to help you remove barriers to mobility and get where you need - and want - to go.