ADA and Universal Design

If you are a wheelchair user, have you had the experience of booking a wheelchair accessible room only to find out upon arrival that “accessible” to the hotel means a couple grab bars in the bathtub? Many wheelchair users are unable to get on their feet to step into the tub.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed into law in 1990 giving persons with disabilities equal access to public places. But not all these places are easy to access especially if the space was built before the act went into law. Even if built after 1990 some facilities may still present challenges. This is because many builders and remodelers fail to understand that the minimum requirements established by the Americans With Disabilities Act are only minimum requirements.  If the built space went beyond the minimum it could make life easier for the person with disabilities.
This is what Universal Design does. For example, ramps with a more gradual slope than the minimum 1′ of run per every 1″ of rise would take far less effort for a wheelchair user to climb.  Also, allowing 60″ x 60″ turning space in an accessible toilet stall would spare a wheelchair user the necessary acrobatics that a tighter space would demand.  And, of course, a roll-in shower with a bench seat to transfer to is usable for everyone rather than a bathtub with grab bar and tub seat.
If you are a person with a disability you have some choices when deciding where you will stay while traveling. Newer constructed buildings (post 1990) may best accommodate your needs.  But, then again, many remodels have incorporated the principles of Universal Design.  My aim is to seek out the most accommodating lodging and post it on this blog.