Today, India is like a shining ray of light, slowly emerging and crossing obstacles toward the summit. As the largest democracy and one that promotes unity in diversity, it is establishing its roots in many sectors. The largest youth population is hungry for opportunities and thirsty for knowledge. What matters the most is channelizing this energy in the right direction. Guidance and supervision must be planned thoughtfully. One day, the seed of sensitivity, responsibility and obligation sown in the early years will grow into a much larger tree. This responsibility is shared not only by parents and teachers but by every respectful citizen in the country. The power we hold within is precious, and utilizing it in the most effective way possible will enhance the standard of living for all time.
Types of disabilities
Over time, the word equality loses its significance. As we enter the technologically advanced world, equality must not only be acknowledged but implemented in all sectors. Prioritizing uniting all people regardless of gender, age, caste, ability, health condition, or socioeconomic background should be a priority. Adapting to the environment requires special skills, which physically handicapped people develop over time. The factors we can manipulate can provide a better environment for their ease of movement if we take them into account. A person taking one step forward can try to lay a better path for the next step. Understanding duty and then putting it into action is the key to crossing over. Being home to a large number of young people has its perks. Often, the rush and energy of youth result in unfortunate incidents where a person might get hurt or slip and fall, resulting in temporary disability. Everyone has been through one or more plaster days when they were young. Considering these possibilities and taking resourceful precautions will make it easier for everyone in the future. Just because there is a large population of young people, the number of senior citizens is also on the rise. As a result of advanced medical technology, life expectancy and age limits have increased. As we age, we face more challenges. As they fight against everything in the pursuit of a healthy life, they suffer from joint pain, severe disability, and so on. The simplest thing to do is to provide a suitable environment for them.
Other countries in terms of universal design
Studies have shown that the number of old people is rapidly growing in Europe. They established the DESIGN FOR ALL movement several years ago. They have taken the initiative and are moving ahead in terms of universal accessibility and inclusive design. Accordingly, the rest of the world is rapidly moving in that direction. It’s our turn to share this sensitive journey with the rest of the world.
Lack of universal design
Comfort plays an influential role in any design process. However, comfort is primarily considered for physically fit individuals. Should be accessible and adaptable to all segments of society. Public buildings, government offices, and religious buildings are places that everyone must pass through someday. Beginning with public areas and spreading to private sectors, this wave must cover all sectors. If you forget about others for a moment, your friends or family can be there. Due to a lack of design sensitivity, one cannot enter or experience the space.
Initiating in educational years
Students are like raw mud on the pottery wheel. It is being tailored with curves and chiseled marks, so in the future, it will have that shape. At the very least, the child must be exposed to the obligation to others, the responsibility to society, and the simple sense of sensitivity at this stage. These values must be instilled in the curriculum and students’ attitudes in connection with architectural design in the early years. The learners of today are going to be the builders of tomorrow. Gradual but effective changes to the educational syllabus will pave the way for a better tomorrow.
Promoting and awarding the lead
Any initiative taken must be rewarded and put forward for others to learn from. Designers in all fields who take a proactive initiative in this sector and make a difference need to be recognized. Government-authorized awards, private awards, and scholarships to promote higher education in this field, etc. Will help bring attention to this initiative? From academic years to senior practitioners, rewards will boost the morale in the sector, and new faces will become involved. The small tokens of appreciation will help to shape the responsible designers of the future.
Developing a healthy attitude
The start of any practice is incomplete without a few key ingredients. Like we use salt in cooking or black and white for painting etc. Some components are already primary needs, but others must be added deliberately to take into account time and need. In the designing sector, we must include universal design and inclusive design initiatives. All spaces, corners, and surrounding areas should be accessible and comfortable for all. As a basic principle, this should not just be a thought, but one at the outset of the process. Let us all take a step ahead for a better and more prosperous future for all.
References
- Why are there so few great accessible buildings (2020). Available at: https://metropolismag.com/viewpoints/why-are-there-so-few-great-accessible-buildings/
- Different types of Disabilities: list of 21 disabilities (2018).
Available at: https://wecapable.com/types-of-disabilities-list/
