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Types of accessibility To begin, it’s helpful to be aware of the different types of accessibility. According to the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, there are three main types: physical, sensory, and cognitive accessibility. Physical A physically accessible event is held in a space that accommodates various physical abilities and body types. This means it has no problems for wheelchair/mobility scooter users and people with vision disabilities, and all spaces work for all ambulatory needs. These people should be able to move safely and comfortably and may require ramps, lifts, wider aisles, and allocated parking spaces. This can also include providing accommodations for nursing women. Sensory People with sensory needs require an event space that is safe and accommodates allergies as well as vision and hearing impairment. People with different sensory processing abilities, like Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), may require accommodation as well. Cognitive Cognitive accessibility accounts for different types of neural information processing. This can look like providing clear information and communication, language translation, and various accommodations for neurodivergent conditions and mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. In his session David Merrell & Susie Perelman Present: Current Trends in the Event Industry at Catersource + The Special Event 2024, Creative Director of AOO Events David Merrell noted that accessibility in the form of neuroinclusivity is gaining traction. “Basically, it’s the idea that everybody interacts and experiences the world around them in a different way, and there’s really no one right way or wrong way. So, a neurodivergent person would be someone who has ADHD, or OCD, or autism, or dyslexia—I would venture to say in this room, there are people that have certain variations or certain degrees of that,” said Merrell. He emphasized that it’s time “to now start thinking about the fact that corporations are actually starting to pay attention to neurodiversity, and make sure that their content and what they do for everybody ... is available for everyone to sensory process in their own way.”
Noise-cancelling headphones can help your attendees with sensory needs enjoy the dynamic entertainment at your event. Photo courtesy KultureCity
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SPECIAL EVENTS FALL 2024
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