What to Remember for Mobility-Impaired Accessibility at Backyard Weddings
January 3, 2020
The United States hasnearly 7 millionindividuals that use mobility assistive devices to aid them each day. Crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs are just some devices in use. As such, backyard weddings often need to include accessibility features to ensure guests with mobility issues can also enjoy the day. Here are a few actions to consider for better accessibility.
Clear Wider Paths
A pathway could include the aisle that leads to seating during the wedding ceremony or it may include a trail to the reception, the portable toilets, or elsewhere. All paths should comfortably accommodate all guests regardless of the purpose of the path. The considerations when clearing the space need to include the smoothness of the surface and the width of the aisle.
Paths should have at least36-inches of widthfor comfortable use for wheelchairs. A two-way path of 60- inches is important for any event where the hosts expect more than one guest to use a wheelchair or other mobility device. Make certain to address any ruts, roots, or other ground disturbances that could affect balance and use of the trail.
Choose Alternative Transportation
If the outdoor area where the event will take place is too rough or steep for to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility devices like a scooter, consider renting golf carts. Many mobility-challenged individuals now make use of devices like golf carts to get around more efficiently, so the addition will not seem unusual.
A cart is a handy addition to an outdoor event like a backyard wedding because it makes it easier to carry the mobility device along to the destination. The carts can help to prevent falls after dark or even help children or the elderly access difficult terrain safely.
Keep Toilets Accessible
Outdoor weddings and receptions usually include portable toilet facilities, too. Include in the rental of an accessible portable unit. The units are larger than a traditional portable toilet to accommodate equipment as needed. Accessible units have a low entry so the user can enter easily and maneuver their device comfortably within the unit.
The size can make accessible portable toilets more comfortable for many guests. Larger individuals may appreciate the less-compact space, and parents with small children may prefer the use of the wider unit when they need to bring children in to use the facilities. Review the guest list to see if the event requires several accessible units.
Make Dining Easier
It may seem sensible to put guests in wheelchairs in a corner of a dining area where others will not bump them during the event. Unfortunately, corners and back sections of the dining area are often hard for the mobility challenged to navigate into and away from after use. The guest may feel trapped within the space and may not leave to socialize as they would like.
Arrange the seating to allow people with mobility devices to sit close to the front so it is easier for them to enter and exit the space. Give them extra elbow room at their table and around the area so that they can move comfortably and so that other guests can get through easily. Make certain the dining table is the correct height for someone in a wheelchair or for whatever device they typically use.
Couples hold outdoor weddings for a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere for themselves and their guests. Make certain all guests have the comfort they need. AtGotta Go Site Service Rentals, we offer one of the most important features for comfort for any event. Our accessible portable toilets meet the needs of all guests. Contact us to learn more.
