Most people walk through a doorway without thinking about the weight of the door or the height of the transition strip. For someone using a mobility aid, these minor details are significant obstacles that can end a trip before it even begins. Auditing our local spaces requires us to look at the world through a lens of total navigation.
The Threshold Problem
A single step of just two inches is enough to stop a power wheelchair in its tracks. These micro-barriers are found at the entrances of cafes, boutiques, and historic buildings across North America. Identifying these points of failure is the first step toward advocating for the simple modifications that make a world of difference.
Navigating the Social Impact
When a person cannot enter a building, they are being excluded from a social experience. This isolation has a profound impact on community cohesion and individual well-being. By pointing out these barriers and demanding change, we are not just asking for better hardware; we are asking for a more connected and empathetic society.