Experiencing accessibility of historical heritage places with individuals living with visible and invisible disabilities

A significant barrier to heritage access for individuals with disabilities persists despite their strong interest. This study, involving 21 adults with visible (e.g., motor) and invisible (e.g., autism) disabilities, revealed diverse obstacles—physical, social, and sensory—that limit participation in historic sites like Old Québec's Séminaire de Québec and Petit-Champlain. While participants employed adaptive strategies, many struggled to engage fully in social or leisure activities, highlighting a disconnect between heritage preservation and inclusive design. The findings underscore the need for accessibility solutions that balance authenticity with equitable access, ensuring heritage remains meaningful and available to all.

Ruiz-Rodrigo, A., Morales, E., Lakoud, M., Riendeau, J., Lemay, M., Savaria, A., Mathieu, S., Feillou, I., & Routhier, F. (2024). Experiencing accessibility of historical heritage places with individuals living with visible and invisible disabilities. Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fresc.2024.1379139