That technology can improve disabled people’s accessibility is a fact. Domotics, adaptations, specific applications offer more independence, safety and quality of life.
For this reason, Google has started and included a new service in Google Maps called “wheelchair accessible” for those with reduced mobility.
Urban centres, buses and trains are maybe the best option to travel but they are challenging for these people. Information about accessible stations and routes is not always available.
Although this accessibility service has been specifically included for disable people, there are also other people who may take advantage of it such as families with small children in their trolleys, the elderly or any other person who may have a temporary mobility problem like using crutches.
How does it work?
Using this new service is easy. You simply have to access the app, type in your wished location and select the “wheelchair-accessible” route option. Google Maps will show the accessible alternative route options.
Since the settings can be saved with Google Maps, only compatible routes with your profile can be selected to be displayed in the future allowing you to quickly detect routes with ramps, adapted bathrooms and lifts.
Moreover, the incorporation of images by Street View is a complement for the person to see a more clear view of how the places are.
A common project
Google ensures that it will be available across Europe soon. It can already be found in London, Tokyo, Boston, Sidney and Mexico. The goal is to reach the greatest number of locations with these accessible routes.
However, although information about millions of places has already been included, there are many other places left to be included. For this reason, Google has asked for users’ help across the world via the Local Guides programmes so that they can express their opinion on several issues related to reduced mobility and add their locations.
Improving accessibility is a team work. By sharing our knowledge we help anyone, anywhere in the world discover and explore the locations which best adapt to his/her needs, contributing to raise the awareness of public institutions on the lack of accessibility in towns and cities at the same time.
Have you already contributed to the cause? We encourage you to do it and make easier many people’s lives.
