July 29, 2022
July 26th is National Disability Independence Day, which commemorates the signing of The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which happened on July 26, 1990. The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in several areas, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications, and access to state and local government programs and services.
ADA compliance means the appropriate and reasonable accommodations are in place for disabled persons. This includes things like large print, interpreters, wheelchair ramps, and allowing service animals.
Statistically, there are over 54 million Americans with a form of disability. When that number is broken down, that’s about 19 percent, or one in every five, Americans. As the population grows and ages, this number will only increase, making these regulations increasingly more important.
As the Plant Operations Director at VITALIA Active Adult Community® – North Olmsted, an ADA-compliant community that serves several individuals with disabilities, I work every day to keep our building accessible and safe.
Things have changed since the ADA, making it easier for people with disabilities. It’s important so they can participate in society and make contributions for the better of all. Some of the things we do to be compliant with the American with Disabilities Act includes having a lift chair, so everyone can use the pool and automatic door openers.
Our weekly tasks that take ADA compliance into consideration are door checks and safety walks, to ensure transition stripes are not coming up.
At home, I have wide doors and touch faucets.
Our goal in everything we do is to continue providing the best possible accessibility opportunities to everyone within our community.
VITALIA® Mentor in Mentor, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Little Mountain Country Club, Pinecrest Shopping and Dining, Lake Metroparks, James A. Garfield National Historic Site, Headlands Beach State Park, and Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
