2. Types of Disabilities / Specific Access Requirements

• Welcoming and Introduction of new module
• Recap previous course module on: Introduction to  Accessible Health &  Wellness Tourism
• What to expect in this course module

Point of view: Services for customers with disabilities / specific access requirements

Introduction PDF file

The ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health)

• Context of ICF:

  • Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • Provides a standardized language and a conceptual framework for describing and understanding human functioning and disability.
  • Acknowledges that disability is a complex phenomenon resulting from the interaction between health conditions, personal factors, and environmental factors.
  • Shifts away from a solely medical model of disability towards a biopsychosocial approach.

• Individual Application of ICF:

  • Can be used to assess individual functioning and disability in various settings (healthcare, rehabilitation, social services).
  • Helps to identify individual needs and strengths.
  • Guides the development of individualized support plans and interventions.
  • Facilitates communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals and other stakeholders.

• ICF Usability:

  • Provides a common language and framework for professionals across different disciplines.
  • Enables data collection and analysis for research and policy development.
  • Supports the development of inclusive and accessible services and environments.
  • Promotes a more holistic and person-centered approach to disability.

PDF File

• Physical Disabilities:

  • Mobility impairments:

    • Wheelchair users
    • People with limited mobility (e.g., difficulty walking, climbing stairs)
    • Amputees

  • Musculoskeletal conditions: Arthritis, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy

  • Neurological conditions: Cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson's disease

  • Access Requirements:

    • Ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms
    • Wide doorways and hallways
    • Adapted transportation (wheelchair-accessible vehicles)
    • Assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, scooters, walkers)
    • Adapted accommodations (e.g., roll-in showers, grab bars)

• Sensory Disabilities:

  • Visual impairments: Blindness, low vision, color blindness

  • Hearing impairments: Deafness, hard of hearing

  • Access Requirements:

    • Visual aids (e.g., Braille signage, large print materials, audio descriptions)
    • Assistive listening devices (e.g., hearing aids, FM systems)
    • Sign language interpreters
    • Clear and concise verbal and written communication
    • Adequate lighting and contrast

• Cognitive Disabilities:

  • Intellectual disabilities

  • Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia)

  • Autism spectrum disorder

  • Dementia

  • Access Requirements:

    • Clear and simple instructions and signage
    • Easy-to-understand language and communication
    • Reduced sensory overload (e.g., quiet areas, low lighting)
    • Assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers, text-to-speech software)
    • Supportive and patient staff

• Neurological Conditions:

  • Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis

  • Access Requirements:

    • Rest areas and quiet zones for those who may experience fatigue or seizures.
    • Assistance with navigation and orientation.
    • Consideration for potential sensory sensitivities (e.g., noise, light, crowds).

• Other Disabilities:

  • Chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)

  • Temporary disabilities (e.g., broken limbs, pregnancy)

  • Access Requirements:

    • Accessibility features that cater to a wide range of needs.
    • Flexible policies and options to accommodate individual needs.
    • Staff trained to recognize and respond to diverse needs.

Motor impairment is the partial or total loss of physical faculties that include walking, balance, holding and manipulating objects, pulling, pushing, lifting and reaching. Many activities involve simultaneous use of more than one of these skills. Disability in mobility can be either an in-born or acquired with age problem. It could also be the effect of a
disease. People who have a broken bone also fall into this category.
Catering for the access requirements of visitors with motor impairments may require:

● clear pre-information about possible handicaps in all means of information (social network, internet);
● access to accessible facilities should be direct and unobstructed;
● a “barrier-free” environment and accessible parking;
● building adjustments and special equipment or installations.

N.B. It is a very varied group differentiated by the type and scope of their impairment.

• Understanding Cognitive Impairments:

  • Intellectual disabilities (e.g., Down syndrome, intellectual developmental disorder)
  • Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD)
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Dementia and other age-related cognitive decline
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Neurological conditions affecting cognitive function

• Specific Access Requirements:

  • Clear and concise communication:
    • Use of simple language, avoiding jargon and complex sentences.
    • Providing information in multiple formats (e.g., visual aids, audio descriptions, easy-to-read materials).
    • Clear and concise signage and wayfinding.
  • Reduced sensory overload:
    • Minimizing noise and visual distractions.
    • Providing quiet areas for rest and relaxation.
    • Offering options for sensory adjustments (e.g., dimming lights, adjusting sound levels).
  • Simplified navigation and orientation:
    • Clear and logical layout of spaces.
    • Consistent signage and wayfinding systems.
    • Providing maps and guides in accessible formats.
  • Flexibility and choice:
    • Offering flexible itineraries and options.
    • Allowing for breaks and adjustments to plans as needed.
    • Providing opportunities for personalized assistance.
  • Assistive technologies:
    • Providing access to assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers, text-to-speech software, communication devices).
  • Staff training:
    • Training staff on effective communication and interaction with individuals with cognitive impairments.
    • Promoting sensitivity and understanding of individual needs and preferences.

• Creating Inclusive Experiences:

  • Providing clear and concise information in advance of travel.
  • Offering pre-arrival support and assistance.
  • Providing options for personalized assistance during travel.
  • Creating a calm and supportive environment.
  • Ensuring staff are trained and equipped to provide appropriate support.

• Ageing Adults
• Developing Child
• Diversity of Stature - People of Very Large or Very Small Stature
• Speech Impairment
• Not Understanding the Language
• Allergies and Other Sensitivities
• Epilepsy