How to Identify Disability-Friendly and Accessible Activities

The Australian Network on Disability reports that 1 in 5 Australians have a disability, and the likelihood of disability increases with age. In fact, 2 in 5 disabled people are 65 years or older. Mobility is a part of aged care disabilities, and hearing loss is a factor as well. It can sometimes be hard to find events and activities that you or a disabled loved one can attend with minimal issues.

So, how can you find fun things to do in your community that are easily accessible and friendly for anyone with disabilities? Here are three questions to find the answers to before you schedule an outing or event at a particular venue.

Are the parking and event entrances accessible for disabled persons?

First, parking must be wheelchair accessible with specific spots designated for vehicles of disabled individuals. Regardless of your mobility issue, you need an easy path to the venue's entrance, which means ramp access when necessary instead of stairs. Ramp access not only helps those with disabilities but also makes it easy for parents with prams.

In addition, does the venue entrance have automatic doorways? Or is the entrance big enough to accommodate a wheelchair (or pram)? Not every entrance was designed large enough to fit a wheelchair or other mobility means like a scooter. Automatic doorways are a sign the venue owner considers the mobility issues of all attendees and has made concessions to make it easy to attend.

Does the venue have disabled-friendly facilities?

Wheelchair-dependent individuals find facilities with toilets designed specifically for them a plus, even a must-have. But the venue shouldn't stop there. Do they have a Hearing Aid Loop installed to help those struggling with hearing loss? Also, look for a facility that offers audio descriptions of your experience for those with sight issues. This isn't restricted to theatres or concert halls. Consider how a sporting event arena could facilitate those with disabilities by offering a viewing area separate from the crowds.

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Does the venue accept companion or support worker cards?

Reputable venues that care about a disabled person's experience recognise companion cards so their disability support carers enter free of charge. This extends to service dogs as well. Avoid any venue that won't let your companion in without buying a separate ticket and those that restrict service dogs from entering. If they're truly disability-friendly and accessible, they'll make concessions for you and your carers/supporters.

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