There is a very big difference wheelchair accessible and wheelchair welcome. People with disabilities are often more disabled by societal aspects like inaccessibility and ableism than we are by our own conditions.
In 2026, navigating the world as a wheelchair user continues to feel like a constant struggle, despite the fact that there are approximately 80 million of us globally. And what’s even more frustrating is that all of the barriers we face are entirely avoidable/preventable.
People may not want to hear it, but inaccessibility is just another form of segregation, and we cannot continue to sit and watch idly as 80 million people (approximately 1% of the global population) are still completely unable to access so many things. From shops, to medical facilities, to restaurants, holidays and leisure activities, wheelchair users are continuing to face unnecessary barriers everywhere. It needs to stop.
Are there any other access barriers you can think of that we may not have included here?
Web Accessibility
When websites aren’t designed with screen readers, color contrast, keyboard navigation or font size & style in mind, millions for users, including those of us who are blind, we are excluded from accessing vital information.
• Resource: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
• Learn More: Accessibility features such as alt text for images, proper heading structures, and accessible forms can make all the difference. Capitalizing the first letter of every word after a # allows our screen readers the ability to read the hashtag #MakingADifference instead of #makingadifference.
Physical Accessibility
When we can’t access your building, you create a barrier for us. Buildings without ramps, automatic doors, tactile paving, or proper signage prevent people with disabilities from accessing public spaces. Physical barriers can prevent participation in social, professional, or personal activities.
• Resource: Rick Hansen Foundation. Standards for Accessible Design
• Learn More: Simple design changes like adding ramps, elevators, or accessible restrooms can foster inclusion.
Accessible Recruitment Processes
When your recruitment process isn’t accessible, you create a barrier for us. When job applications and interviews aren’t accessible, companies lose out on valuable talent. Recruitment should accommodate everyone, including candidates living with disabilities, by offering alternatives like online interviews, accessible application forms, and inclusive onboarding processes. One way does not work for everyone, being welcoming and open to working with individuals to find solutions leads to productivity.
• Resource: Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – Recruitment and Hiring
Inclusive Company Culture
When your company culture isn’t accessible, you create a barrier for us. It’s not just about getting people through the door; it’s about creating a work environment where everyone can succeed. This includes providing assistive technologies, offering flexible work hours, and fostering a culture of inclusivity. This is not an expensive process. In fact there are Grants available to make spaces more inclusive and accessible.
• Resource: Disability:IN – Inclusive Culture Guide
Accessible Content
Content, whether it’s a video, a document, or social media, needs to be accessible to everyone. Captioned videos, transcriptions for audio content, and using accessible fonts and color contrasts are key to reaching a broader audience.
• Resource: W3C Accessibility Resources
Together, we can break through barriers. Accessibility is about equity and inclusion. By making conscious efforts to improve accessibility in all areas, we create barrier free spaces.
Let’s challenge the status quo and make a commitment to creating a world where everyone can fully participate. Being mindful we will all be 80 years old one day and everyone of us will need some accommodation or assistance. Lets all age knowing life will be easier for us when we need the accessibility for ourself or loved ones.
This is the View from Where I Sit!
