Introduction: In recent years, there has been an increasing emphasis on the importance of an inclusive society; however, the built environment still poses a major barrier for people with physical disabilities and affects their independence, social inclusion, and quality of life. Contemporary biopsychosocial approaches emphasize that physical disability is not merely an individual characteristic but the result of the interaction between the individual and the environment; therefore, understanding daily functioning is of crucial importance. Occupational therapy highlights the importance of adapting the environment, as a properly designed space can significantly contribute to an individual’s greater functional independence. Universal design enables the accessibility of spaces to a wider range of people and plays a significant role in promoting equal opportunities and improving quality of life, particularly in smaller local communities. Purpose: Based on laws and recommendations, we inspected and assessed the accessibility of the store with post office, bakery, community center, school, church, and cemetery in Selca for people with mobility impairments. After completing the assessment, we developed a new design for the store. In doing so, we relied on the guidelines and principles of universal design. Methods: Using the six-step universal design method, we assessed the accessibility of the facilities. We evaluated this using a prepared assessment tool based on applicable laws and recommendations. Using the results obtained, we then designed adaptations for the store, which we presented in the Creo program. Results: The buildings we assessed are not universally accessible to people with mobility impairments. Inaccessibility begins in the parking lot and continues into the interior of the buildings. Information signs or markings are nowhere to be found. We provided recommendations for adapting the store. The proposed adaptations include both physical and informational adjustments for the parking lot, access to the entrance, the entrance itself, and the interior of the store. Discussion and conclusion: The results of the study showed that the main public buildings in Selca are not adequately adapted for people with mobility impairments, which hinders their access to basic services and reduces their independence and social inclusion. The most common barriers include inadequately designed parking lots, inaccessible pathways, stairs without proper handrails, excessively steep ramps, and thresholds that are too high at entrances. These findings align with other studies highlighting that, despite legislation, many public buildings still contain architectural barriers. The principles of universal design, a greater role for occupational therapists in spatial planning, and additional solutions such as digital services and local mobility programs could contribute to improving accessibility.
|
