Accessible for all: Creating a Barrier-free Environment in a Government Institution Working for the Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities

It is imperative that we accommodate the diverse requirements of people with disabilities. One of them is establishing a barrier-free environment, which will enable people to move about freely and utilize services and facilities on their own. According to the concept of accessibility, anybody can make effective use of the same products, services, or information, regardless of their limitations. One of the strategies to increase accessibility is to make the surroundings barrier-free. Children, expectant mothers, and senior citizens can all use a barrier-free environment as well as people with disabilities.

The Government of India's Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities began the accessible India campaign in 2015 with the objective of ensuring total accessibility for people with disabilities. One of their focus areas is accessibility in the built environment. Chapter VIII, Section 40 of the RPwD Act of 2016 emphasizes the need to establish criteria of accessibility in the physical environment, including diverse forms of transportation, public buildings, and spaces that must be adhered to, as well as a 5-year time limit to make existing public structures accessible. It is necessary to ensure that people have access to information and communication technology.

National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH), India started activities in the year 2018 in response to such realization. The DESIGN & REDESIGN strategy was implemented to establish a Barrier Free Environment in the Institute.

The initiative in improving the accessibility of the campus was taken in 2018.

Recognise the Need by Identifying the Requirement

The government made it mandatory to provide a barrier free environment, especially for persons with disabilities. A common prevalent misconception makes people feel that all that is required to make a built space barrier-free is a ramp and an elevator/lift. However, there are many additional features of barrier-free design, such as door and passage widths, flooring surface, counter heights, door handles and railings, and signs and auditory signals. NISH discovered the necessity to make their campus barrier-free when one of the staff members who is deaf ran into an issue.

Examine the Status by Conducting Accessibility Audit

The goal of the access audit is to evaluate existing facilities and make recommendations for improvements that would benefit people with disabilities as well as people with limited mobility. In India, there are empanelled access auditors. M/s Samarthyam, one of the empanelled team members of Ministry of Social Justice was assigned to conduct the audit, while NISH team prepared the report.

Draft a Proposal by Including the Funding

Money matters. The Scheme for Implementing of Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995 (SIPDA) has been put into effect by the Ministry for Social Justice and Empowerment of the Government of India to provide financial aid for carrying out various activities. NISH submitted the proposal to the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) for funds from SIPDA scheme. The accessibility audit report and the budget estimate prepared using PRICE software, other corroborate documents like audited financial statements, annual reports and recommendation by the Secretary, Department of Social Justice, Government of Kerala were submitted to the ministry.

Execute, Let the PwD Check, Modify

Executing the proposed accessibility activities is another important step. This phase ensures that the proposed activities are being executed thereby meeting the construct deliverables and monitored. HLL Infra Tech Services Limited, a central government concern was given the task of carrying out the suggested operations. At NISH, the implementation team includes staff members who are PwD. NISH has a construction committee constituted to oversee all civil works where Retd. Chief Engineer & Consultant is the Chairman. Executive Director, who is the head of the institute is also a member.

As NISH is an accessible campus, the wheelchair users are receiving training from the institution on how to use the ramps effectively. Even if we have assistive or adaptive technologies to meet the needs of persons with disabilities, there still needs to be an environment that is accessible for those technologies to function properly. There are more big-small things to do in the area of Accessibility: creating a barrier free environment than simply building ramps to make physical spaces accessible.

Subsequent Audit

In this phase the team is trying to understand how well the activities have been executed and to check if the set goal has been achieved. Accessibility for all is an indicator of social development and the activities can be worked and reworked to meet the social aspects as well. After the implementation of each and every facility, the end users checked and verified if the facilities are implemented as per the accessibility guidelines.

Indorse

It is always important to get the public to know about the initiative of Accessibility and Barrier free environment. NISH was declared a barrier free accessible for all campus by the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala on 17th May 2022. Thus, the stakeholders including the general public became aware about the redesign done at NISH.

Go for Accessibility Certification

Ensure the changes have been made as per guidelines by going for accessibility certification. Certification will enhance the authenticity and credibility of the work done. Immediately after the 100% completion of the project, NISH will go for this.

Never Miss Periodic Maintenance

New guidelines issued or existing ones can be modified because the Government changes, technology changes, content is added, the staff is overturned, the accessibility of an organization’s structure and technology must be reviewed periodically. NISH is aware that accessibility is not a “one and done” undertaking. Periodic maintenance will be planned.

Major areas redesigned by NISH include Road Accessibility, Accessible Car parking, Built ramps, lifts, Establishment of accessible toilet, Introduced wheelchair friend podium, Lowering electric switches, Improving luminosity in classrooms, Introduced Alarm system, vibrator, Installation of High Contrast bands on the office table edges and edges of steps and stairs, Installation tactical paving’s, Modifications in the outdoor seating arrangements, Installation of Video Relay Services, Installation of two-level vision panel, Improved signage installation, Accessible information, Increased classroom accessibility, Increased Library accessibility.

Intelligent System for Accessible Content Creation by Design

Enterprises produce broad range of digital documents, such as bank statements, pay slips, e-books/bills & others which transformed the way how consumers engage with brands but a section of the world population with print disabilities is still deprived of such digital facilities because they are mostly inaccessible. Inaccessible documents lack the aspects of usability and seamless reading experience especially for disabled users and thereby this results in a discriminatory and stigmatizing situation which is highly unwanted.

There are diverse ways in which documents are created by enterprises like - via text editor, raw content coming from Database or through Content Management Systems (CMS). In all scenarios, enterprises take a reactive approach to implement accessibility postproduction, which is not right and practical because it’s a laborious and a largely manual task, which requires specialized training, high cost and effort. Diverse inputs of contents as mentioned prior are increasing the complexity to have an enterprise wide solution.

In this paper “Intelligent System for Accessible Content Creation by Design”, we are presenting our pro-active solution approach of ‘Inclusive Content by DESIGN’, where we are building a core AI technology capable of processing raw and unstructured content derived from traditional document formats like PDF, RTF, Text, HTML, XML, or from enterprise databases or from Content Management Systems. Our technology identifies accessibility gaps at element level e.g., headings, paragraphs, images, tables, links etc., at page and at document level, introduce accessibility fixes based on noncompliance and later publish diverse accessible formats like accessible PDF, EPUB3, DAISY text/audio and E braille. We made sure to have separate modules for Identification, Extraction, Assessment of Non-Compliance, User Interface, and Conversion. AI based decisioning approach is incorporated for an increased accuracy and precision and Hybrid approaches are adopted to ensure larger coverage wherever and whenever required. It will envisage the enterprise system to take care of end-to-end process from content generation to content/document production with ‘Machine First’ approach and to disseminate in inclusive formats. Overcoming user challenges due to inaccessible content is the main motive behind our implementation.

Our vision is to bring a holistic approach of solving all type of document accessibility in one platform by disseminating right content at right time across industries at enterprise level by integrating accessibility at root.

Below link demonstrate our POC with PDF document-

https://accessibilitycoe.blob.core.windows.net/$web/contentaccessibility.html

In this demo we are showcasing , a document which is an Insurance Coverage Comparison brochure. The document is inaccessible by default which makes reading and understanding difficult for visually impaired users. It shows , business consultant, can leverage our platform to create an Accessible Version of the document without dependency on niche skills.

A Study of Electronic Mobility Device Use in South India

Electronic mobility devices provide excellent opportunities for community participation and independence of persons with disabilities. General perception among persons with disabilities, rehabilitation professionals and among stakeholders is that the cost is higher for these devices which in turn limit the prescription and use. Another issue is the fact that these are not strictly considered as prescription devices and people who do not have expertise in the field buy them off the shelf or market. The lack of appropriate modifications in the device and in the surroundings hinders their efficient usage. Nearly 48 people were prescribed and issued high-end, electronic mobility devices by the authors since the year 2019. Forty of them were given electronic wheelchairs, 4 were given electronic scooters (geriatric type) and 4 were given combination of light-weight manual wheelchair with electronic scooter attachment. Many devices were given through camp modes, organized with the combined efforts of voluntary organization, FIRRE (Foundation for International Rehabilitation Research and Empowerment) with the District Administration of Thrissur, Kerala and the Social Justice Department, the South Indian State of Kerala. Thorough assessments were conducted of all beneficiaries including detailed history and physical examination prior to prescription and issue. Wherever possible, visits were made to clients’ homes, work place or other where the assistive technology (AT) device use was intended. Many were given customized devices, with adjustments to height and weight or any additional requirements.

The present study is planned as a review of all the beneficiaries who were prescribed and given the powered mobility device through telephonic interviews. Although all beneficiaries were prescribed AT Devices that were felt to be most appropriate at the time of prescription, follow up and reassessment is warranted to document this. The device usage, present status of the device, problems faced in its use, repairs needed if any, etc. will be assessed. The qualitative feedback from the users may be beneficial not only for stakeholders, but for the rehabilitation and AT professionals, manufacturers and service providers.

The authors being social activists too, are in continued contact with many of the users. The initial impression, prior to starting the review is that attitudinal and social barriers may be more significant hindrances to the use of high-end mobility devices like electronic/motorized wheelchairs rather than economic and financial constraints. Architectural and environmental barriers add to the difficulties faced by persons with physical or locomotor disabilities who have the potential to become independent with electronic mobility devices. It is also felt that the persons who made financial contribution towards procurement of the device had better usage rates. Those who were using the device more got the repairs done quickly as compared to those who were not using frequently. Care and family support are positive factors, however may prevent persons with disabilities from participating independently in the cultural setting. Self-motivation, awareness regarding the implications of the health condition that caused disability, interaction with peers, etc. are positive factors that may increase the participation. These assumptions will be addressed during the telephonic interviews and the study is anticipated to be completed in two weeks.

More dedicated services are required to increase the acceptance and use of advanced electronic mobility devices and self-sufficiency of patients. With the explosion of technologies, especially in the field of high-end/advanced assistive technology, such studies would help guide the direction of these services.

Assistive Devices for Persons with Visual Impairment and Low Vision: Expectations of Users in the Southern States of India

Introduction

Assistive devices are used to support, maintain, or improve the functional abilities of persons with disabilities. Persons with visual impairment use various types of assistive devices in their day-to-day lives for their mobility, education, games, activities of daily living, etc. Assistive devices which are commonly used by persons with visual impairment are procured and distributed under the scheme of “Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances” (ADIP) by the Government of India. The current research study was undertaken to identify users’ feedback about difficulties in using the devices and their suggestions for enhancing the use of assistive devices. The study considered the software commonly used by persons with visual impairment and the assistive devices that are distributed through the ADIP scheme.

Objectives

The study had the following objectives:

• To find out the expectations of the users about assistive devices for persons with visual impairment and low vision.
• To suggest measures to improve the usability of assistive devices.

Method

The study is descriptive in nature. It describes the shortcomings of using assistive devices, as well as the end user's expectations and suggestions. An interview schedule was administered to 227 people with visual impairment who use any kind of assistive device in the Southern States of India (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and the Union Territory of Puducherry). The interviews were conducted on a one-to-one basis with 101 people with visual impairment and from 24 small groups. In the present study, there was no risk to the physical and mental well-being of the respondents.

Major Findings

Users’ Expectations regarding Assistive Devices

The participants expressed their desire to use new assistive devices compatible with their growing needs. The users expect the following devices

Mobility

• Devices to identify the bus numbers (n =22)
• Audio announcements at bus stops (n =5)
• Along with vibration and audio output in Smart Cane, sound variation or vibration for different types of obstacles is also needed (n =17)
• A collapsible cane that extends with the pressing of a button and folds when pressed like a radio antenna (n =1)
• Vibrating shoes to guide mobility (n =2)

Educational Devices and Software

• Voice search options in Daisy Players (n =3)
• The accuracy of Optical Character Recognition Software in the Regional Languages is to be enhanced (n = 11).
• Scientific lab materials/instruments/devices for persons with visual impairment (n=2) Daily Living Devices
• Still photographic cameras may be enhanced with an audio feedback feature to allow people with visual impairments to operate them (n =5).
• The Refreshable Braille display has to be newly designed and time has to be displayed in Braille format in Braille Watch (n =3)
• Direction indicator compass with audio output (n =1)
• Audible Power Bank (n =1)

Recreational Devices/Software

• Screen readers to support computer games (n =2).

Device-Specific Expectations
Cane

• The elastic gets ruptured frequently. Strong elastic having long durability is needed (39.61%, n =61).
• The Cane tip gets flattened due to constant use. The tip of the Cane made up of sturdy material is needed (7.93%, n =5)

Smart Cane

• Using the Smart Cane during the rainy season may damage the sensor and the speaker as rainwater gets into the device. In order to prevent this, a waterproof sensor can be fitted to the Smart Cane (14.81%, n =12).

General Suggestions for Assistive Devices

• The Assistive Devices sales counters should also be upgraded into workshops for the servicing of assistive devices, as very few facilities are available right now to undertake after-sale service (n =30). It may also be able to sell spare parts for different assistive devices, such as coins for chess boards; elastic, tips, etc. for the folding cane; a guider for the Braille Slate, etc. (n = 10).
• Very few trained professionals are available to repair assistive devices for persons with disabilities. The manpower has to be increased (n =6).
• At present, very few games are being played by persons with visual impairments. One important reason for this may be the sparse availability of playing equipment with additional audio feedback facilities and suitable adaptation. Therefore, it is desirable to develop more games for persons with visual impairments with adaptations (n =10).
• The aids and appliances are supplied by the manufacturer without a user guide or manual. The manual in accessible format will be of great use in getting acquainted with the use and handling of these devices (n=1).

Conclusion

The users expressed device-specific expectations and provided useful feedback to improve the utility of most of the devices. The suggestions are consolidated and presented in this research report and may offer useful feedback to the manufacturers of each of the devices for further refinement on quality, durability and users’ expectations.

Assistive Technology to access the computer with severe PwD& AT and Early Intervention

Background about our organization

Vidya Sagar has been working with children and adults with disabilities for the last 37 years. Through various projects and programmes, Vidya Sagar has been instrumental in changing perceptions, spread awareness and make a difference not only in the life of the person with disability, but also bring about a change in society. https://vidyasagar.co.in/

speech and communication difficulties are common in people with multiple disabilities.The Speech and Communication Department of Vidya Sagar carries out assessments and trains children and adultS to use alternative and augmentative modes of communication. We use simple low tech and high-tech devices as alternative modes of expressive communication.

For decades India has been importing high tech AAC devices which make them accessible only for few .Vidya sagar has spearheaded the indigenous technology and by collaborating with IIT Chennai and Chetna foundation had come up with a movement sensor switch -ADITI .We also we’re instrumental in developing AVAZ ,thus making an affordable hardware and a software solution in India .

We went a step ahead and Our in-house technical team had developed an access switch (called Vinner & VBosS) back in March 2018 .This was a big break through and helped our students in operating the computers .

But mass production of this was not viable and we took an alternative route of using 3D printing technology . Thus we are able to ensure that an access device is available to a larger population at an affordable cost .A simple solution made a huge impact !!Background about our organization:

Vidya Sagar has been working with children and adults with disabilities for the last 37 years. Through various projects and programmes, Vidya Sagar has been instrumental in changing perceptions, spread awareness and make a difference not only in the life of the person with disability, but also bring about a change in society. https://vidyasagar.co.in/

speech and communication difficulties are common in people with multiple disabilities.The Speech and Communication Department of Vidya Sagar carries out assessments and trains children and adultS to use alternative and augmentative modes of communication. We use simple low tech and high-tech devices as alternative modes of expressive communication.

For decades India has been importing high tech AAC devices which make them accessible only for few .Vidya sagar has spearheaded the indigenous technology and by collaborating with IIT Chennai and Chetna foundation had come up with a movement sensor switch -ADITI .We also we’re instrumental in developing AVAZ ,thus making an affordable hardware and a software solution in India .

We went a step ahead and Our in-house technical team had developed an access switch (called Vinner & VBosS) back in March 2018 .This was a big break through and helped our students in operating the computers .

But mass production of this was not viable and we took an alternative route of using 3D printing technology . Thus we are able to ensure that an access device is available to a larger population at an affordable cost .A simple solution made a huge impact !! ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY and Early Intervention

In order to complete day to day activities independently and effectively, technology plays a vital role in human life.

Assistive technology has a lot of potential in supporting children with development delays .This paper gives comprehensive analysis of the types of assistive software available and their usage for children with special needs and the way forward in both inclusive education and in making them independent .