Mobility of the sight and hearing impaired: barriers and solutions identified

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to provide insights on the most hindering barriers that sight and hearing impaired passengers face when using public transport services. Furthermore, possible convenient solutions to the identified problems shall be presented. To allow for an understanding of these propositions a short introduction and clear definition on sight and hearing impairment is provided. Design/methodology/approach -First a clear definition of sight and hearing impairment is developed to delimit from blind and "normal" persons. A two phase approach was utilized where in the first step qualitative interviews were conducted and the findings were then evaluated based on a literature review. Findings -The authors found a wide variety of different problems being imposed on impaired passengers that could be segmented into four categories ("stops and stations", "vehicles", "general mobility problems" and "public awareness"). Additionally multiple solutions to each of these barriers are presented and the main target group is indicated. Research limitations/implications -Further research is required in the perception of the impaired on specific barriers and solutions, which was only qualitatively provided in this study. Additionally the attitude and awareness of public transport companies towards the recognition of sight and hearing impaired as a specific target group and the implementation of solutions for them are important factors that are not investigated as of yet. Practical implications -As public transport is an ever more important factor in everyday life, the responsible authorities should be made aware of the specific problems imposed on sight and hearing impaired persons. Therefore, this paper provides a first comprehensive list of barriers with convenient solutions that should be considered for a barrier-free public transport system. Originality/value -This paper provides a first introduction of barriers and possible solutions for sight and hearing impaired passengers in public transport systems. Therefore, authorities and public transport companies looking for options to improve their services can lean on these results.

Access to public transport to persons with visual disability: A scoping review

“…With improving access to information during travel by persons with visual disability, it has been reported that audio and current announcements on incoming and departing vehicles, trouble reports, and bad weather conditions should be done (Fürst, 2010). As reported in this study, this information should be of clear and articulate pronunciation and terms that are used only locally should be avoided.…”

“…As reported in this study, this information should be of clear and articulate pronunciation and terms that are used only locally should be avoided. Designing and recording taped announcements, that could be played at the bus station and during travel would be a great way to make this information accessible to persons with visual disability (Fürst, 2010).…”

“…Standardization of vehicle design. The interior design of buses or vehicles should be in high contrasting colors with dazzle-free materials (matt surfaces, no polished metal elements) as it has been shown to significantly improve the orientation of the visually impaired and help them recognize potential dangers and react in time (Fürst, 2010). Yellow markings are relatively satisfactory (Fürst, 2010).…”

“…The interior design of buses or vehicles should be in high contrasting colors with dazzle-free materials (matt surfaces, no polished metal elements) as it has been shown to significantly improve the orientation of the visually impaired and help them recognize potential dangers and react in time (Fürst, 2010). Yellow markings are relatively satisfactory (Fürst, 2010). When considering the design of the exterior of buses, locating the position of the entrance as well as the door openers on the outside should be easy.…”

Accessible Design of Low-Speed Automated Shuttles: A Brief Review of Lessons Learned from Public Transit

“…The two studies on sensory impairment were related to visual impairment; neither addressed auditory impairment even though people with auditory impairment experience barriers in information access that lead to delays or errors when traveling (Bettger, 1989;Fürst & Vogelauer, 2012). Older adults and people with limitations in cognitive function have also been shown to experience challenges in public transportation (Broome et al, 2009).…”