Making Mobility More Inclusive

In a piece in Greater Good Magazine, Mohsen Rasoulivalajoozi and Carmela Cucuzzella outline ways that cities can make urban spaces more inclusive for people with disabilities and mobility challenges.

According to the authors, “To create truly inclusive cities, it is vital for policymakers and experts to go beyond minimum standards and critically examine how our urban spaces continue to exclude people with disabilities.”

Some people who require mobility devices face a financial burden in getting safe, well-fitting, and effective equipment. This can create a mismatch between users and mobility aids, which may also not match the environment people must navigate on a daily basis. “However, integrating new technologies requires careful consideration, as assistive devices can also attract social stigma.”

The authors also point to trust as a key factor in whether people want to use mobility aids or facilities designed to improve accessibility, as well as the importance of sociocultural contexts in how people navigate their environment and use mobility aids. “By addressing negative representations and promoting designs that reflect dignity and inclusivity, interventions can align with inclusivity goals and enhance positive social engagement.”