Problem

The accessibility of the built environment of public buildings (e.g., libraries, recreation centres and adult school environments) and outdoor environments (e.g., sidewalks and pedestrian crossings) is an issue that people with reduced mobility face on a daily basis. Providing a measure of accessibility of the built environment that takes into account the varied and, sometimes, contradictory needs of people with motor, visual, auditory, cognitive and intellectual disabilities to identify a balance that promotes access for as many individuals as possible is a significant challenge.

Solution

The MEA enables the assessment of accessibility for built environments through synthesized, structured sheets with good indicators of interjudged fidelity. It can be used by organizations, institutions, clinicians of the health sector, designers and managers of urban centres, researchers or anyone who wishes to ensure an equitable access to the built environment to people with physical, intellectual and cognitive disabilities.

Valorization

The MEA is offered by the Service de la valorisation des connaissances, formation réseau et rayonnement de la Direction de l’enseignement et des affaires universitaires du CIUSSS de la Capitale Nationale.