Accessibility Playbook

PART 1

FOUR COMMON DISABILITIES The landscape of disability is complex,

Vision disabilities. Includes blindness and low vision, conditions affecting a person’s ability to see. Auditory disabilities. Includes deafness and hard of hearing, conditions affecting a person’s ability to hear. Mobility disabilities. Conditions affecting a person’s ability to move around indepen-dently and perform everyday activities. Neurocognitive disabilities. Variations in human neurological development that result in different ways of processing sensory information, experiencing the world, and interacting with others.

encompassing conditions present at birth, those that are progressive or develop over time, those caused by injuries, and structural and functional impairments. The World Health Organization’s 2001 International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) classifies disabilities by considering the limitations of activity and participation in personal and societal life. When it comes to traveler experiences, consider four types of disabilities:vision, auditory, mobility, and neurocognitive. While some disabilities are visible, many are unseen. No matter the type of disability that exists, it is essential to treat each individual with respect. This involves understanding and acknowledging unique perspectives, needs, and experiences.

Accessibility Icons

Eye icon – Represents visual impairments or services for people with low vision. Guide dog – Indicates service animals are welcome and recognized. Braille dots – Braille signage or information is available. Hand reading Braille – Reinforces availability of Braille materials or tactile

who are blind or have low vision.

Person with cane and dots – Indicates tactile paths or guidance for people who

are blind or have visual impairments.

Accessible parking sign with downward arrow – Accessible parking

available in a garage or lower level.

Person in wheelchair on incline – Signifies wheelchair-accessible ramps are

signage.

available.

Ear with sound waves – Assistive listening devices or hearing support

Wheelchair with “RAMP” label – Indicates a ramp entrance that is

available.

wheelchair accessible.

Brain with circuits – Refers to supports for neurodivergent individuals or cognitive

Elevator with wheelchair icon – Signifies an accessible elevator or lift for

disabilities.

wheelchair users.

Person with white cane – Designates an area accessible or designed for people