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    How Accessibility Can Be Improved

    Date Posted: July 21, 2020
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    How Accessibility Can Be Improved

    How can accessibility be improved?

    Here at Dreamscape Foundation, we emphasize the value of accessibility. We rally for accessibility so that public spaces will be more inclusive and safer for disabled individuals. Our mission is to uplift the lives of people with disabilities and the awareness of other people. Aside from donations for people with disabilities, the following will help improve accessibility in public and business areas:  

    Perform an accessibility audit

    We encourage business owners to conduct an accessibility audit within their premises. There are a lot of free accessibility resources for the disabled that they can use. This will paint a clearer picture of how inclusive their business is. Be sure to check that there are accessible means of getting into and around the property. It’s also a win-win situation for both the disabled individuals and the owner since accessibility paves the way for more customers.  

    Allow entry of support dogs

    Many disabled individuals in the United States rely on the help of their service dogs. This benefit is protected and mandated under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under this law, privately owned businesses such as theaters, hotels, restaurants, concert halls, and more are required to allow entry of service animals.  

    Accept other forms of identification

    A lot of establishments nowadays consider driver’s licenses as the only form of identification. With many disabled individuals not allowed or physically incapable of securing one, this is quite limiting. Recognizing other forms of identification aside from a driver’s license will allow a disabled person to avail the services and goods he or she needs.  

    Train employees to cater to disabled individuals

    Aside from physical changes in the facilities and rules, businesses should also train their staff toward accessibility. The employees should know how to assist disabled individuals with their needs. This process will also promote awareness and acceptance of people with disabilities.

    How can we help the disabled?

    Big or small, helping disabled individuals makes a big difference in their lives. A small contribution will add up to a more significant change. If you want to help people with disabilities, the following are the things you can do:  

    Be better allies

    Educating yourself and understanding the plight of disabled individuals is a great help. Although indirectly, informing yourself will help combat the stereotypes and discrimination that people with disabilities face.  

    Always check accessibility

    Regardless if you own a business or just hosting a gathering, make sure that the place and program are accessible for people with disabilities. Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you can make your place more inclusive and comfortable for people with disabilities.  

    Support causes that help the disabled

    Charities and organizations that support people with disabilities can make use of financial and moral support. You can make donations for people with disabilities or volunteer to their activities. All efforts made toward helping disabled people will uplift their lives in so many ways. True to this mission, Dreamscape Foundation provides accommodation for the disabled so that they can pursue fulfilling work and education. As a charity for people with disabilities, we provide aid for people with sensory impairments to improve their quality of life. Your contributions are funneled entirely to support our causes to make their lives easier.    
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    What is Accessibility and Why Does It Matter?

    What is accessibility and why does it matter? We explore the meaning as well as how it gives people with disabilities equal opportunity in this blog.
    Date Posted: July 23, 2018
    1 Comment

    What is Accessibility and Why Does It Matter?

    What is accessibility exactly and why does it matter? As Debra Ruh once said, "Accessibility allows us to tap into everyone's potential." In this blog, we delve into how this accessibility gives people with disabilities equal opportunities in life. We use the term “accessibility” a lot here at Dreamscape Foundation. A big part of our mission is to provide accessibility to disabled individuals, but what does that even mean? If you aren’t familiar with the term, it all sounds pretty vague and abstract, yet this term refers to something very specific and crucial to everyday life.

    What is Accessibility, Exactly?

    Accessibility is a term used to describe the level of usability for a product, service, device, or even environment in relation to individuals with limitations due to disabilities. This includes technology-based products, such as websites, mobile applications, and other electronic information. However, it isn’t limited to just those things. Accessibility also refers to physical locations like storefronts and facilities, as well as transportation, customer service and communication methods, and other elements of our everyday lives from the physical realm to the digital one. Because there is a wide range of disabilities in the world today, there is a lot to consider when creating accessible locations, products, and services. This includes (but isn’t limited to):
    • Accessibility for the blind and visually impaired
    • Accessibility for the hearing impaired
    • Accessibility for individuals with limited mobility
    Solutions to better improve accessibility may be anything from physical ramps and audio devices to adaptive controls, screen readers and accessibility-based plugins and integrations for your website.

    Why Should Every Business Consider Its Own Accessibility?

    Accessibility may not seem like a big deal for individuals who don’t need it. However, if you take a moment to put yourself in the shoes of someone that does, it makes a world of a difference. Living with a disability can make everyday tasks into challenges. From public transportation and errands to browsing the web, using an app, or making a phone call, all it takes is one limitation to turn an easy-to-do list into an all-day affair. Imagine trying to pay your bills online when you have trouble moving a mouse or seeing the screen. Picture having to climb the steps into a building while in a wheelchair. Envision watching a movie you can’t see without the aid of an audio transcript that describes the scenes in front of you. This is why accessibility is important. It makes the places, objects, and joys of life available to everyone, with or without limitations. So what is it you as an individual or business can do to make life more accessible to people with disabilities? Many things, including:
    • Making your website accessible through adaptations like those offered by User1st
    • Creating easier access points through ramps, lever door handles, and automatic door systems
    • Ensuring hallways and aisles are clear and bathrooms are wheelchair accessible
    • Ensuring your tables, chairs and/or desks are wheelchair accessible
    • Make sure your signage uses large fonts, imagery, and Braille for better readability
    • Welcome feedback so you can identify and address unknown challenges
    • Educate yourself and your business on accessibility methods and compliance
    Are you interested in learning more about how your business can help improve accessibility not only for itself but in your community? Contact us at Dreamscape Foundation to discuss opportunities where you can make a difference. Looking to contact us directly? Let us know if you want to set up a conversation! (+1) 239-325-1881
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