"Accessible Intersections": Improving the accessibility of street crossings and public pedestrian spaces for people with disabilities
Adapting city structures to the needs of a growing older adult population is necessary to meet the challenges of changing demographics. As individuals age, they become more reliant on their local communities and the community’s infrastructure to participate in activities of daily living. Safe and accessible pedestrian infrastructure plays an important role in the development of livable and walkable neighbourhoods, which are essential for community involvement, and physical activity, and to reduce social isolation.
Improving the design of street crossings or intersections, a key piece of community infrastructure, would support community accessibility for older adults and persons with disability. Research supporting current street crossing designs have been generally conducted in more favourable climates, with little consideration given to the functionality of accessible design features in winter climates.
Our research aims to identify and address barrier and facilitators to current intersection design practices for persons across age and disability. Specific objectives of this project include:
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To identify current barriers to pedestrian accessibility and community participation, and contributors to fall-risk when crossing pedestrian intersections in winter conditions, for persons with and without disabilities.
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To identify and evaluate innovative intersection design practices, with a focus on potential solutions to be employed in winter climates.
Project funded by:
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Project Grant):
Project output: Forthcoming
