I've always been the type of gal that wants those around me to be comfortable in their surroundings. I know, at times, I take being a hostess with the mostest to the extreme, but I'm doing better at managing that side of my persona. (Plus, having been at my parents' house this past month recuperating from my surgery, I can say the apple didn't fall from the tree.) I'm an empathetic and compassionate person, so whenever I see anyone - no matter their age - struggling to walk, go through a door, etc. - I try to assist them.
The government made significant strides in making life easier for several thousands of Americans with the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I admit that I'm not familiar with every aspect of the ADA, but I do know a thing or two about the building codes. You see, my friend KW and I spent a few weeks one summer helping with the ADA Audit for Southwestern Oklahoma University. We assisted the architects assigned to the project by doing such glamorous things as measuring the height of every toilet, the slope of every sidewalk and the width of every doorway on campus.
Having been in a knee brace and on crutches since May 19, I've come to really appreciate the ADA. However, there is still a long way to go in enforcing compliance. The little things you don't think much of when you can walk just fine, really jump up and bite you when you can't. Think about it: Why do they put the handicap accessible stalls furthest from the door of restrooms? (If there's a legitimate reason, I'd love to know.)
Most businesses may think they're compliant, but they have some little quirks that make for a less-than-comfortable environment for some of their patrons.
Next time you see someone on crutches or struggling with a package or a door, please take a moment to see if they'd like a little help. It never hurts to ask.
I bet it's to have room for larger doors. But that's just a guess.
Posted by: Adam | June 23, 2009 at 01:36 PM