Anyone in a wheelchair knows how simple everyday tasks can become a hassle when you’re living with a disability. Something as simple as meeting some friends for dinner or catching a movie often requires planning ahead.
Now, thanks to filmmaker Jason DaSilva, that planning process is so much easier.
As a man that deals with the obstacles of multiple sclerosis on a daily basis, DaSilva knows how frustrating it can be to move around in a crowded area such as his hometown of New York City. While it is one of the most handicap accessible cities in the country, it can still be quite a headache to get around while confined to a wheelchair.
DaSilva has created an app called AXS Map that helps those in wheelchairs find more accessible routes and businesses within their area. This goes beyond finding handicap ramps or wheelchair-friendly attractions. AXS Map is powered by Google Maps and allows users to rate local businesses on the level of accessibility.
Ultimately, though, it is not an app centered on rating businesses on how well they attend to those with disabilities. Rather, AXS Map was created to help wheelchair-bound individuals maneuver through their home town much easier. This makes planning ahead much easier, as there is never any second-guessing or doubts as to whether or not being in a wheelchair will make a certain plan harder than it needs to be.
DaSilva says: “People without disabilities don’t realize all the challenges that we face, like is a restroom accessible, is there one small step outside a restaurant that would keep us from being able to get in? It kind of blows their minds when they start to realize all these little details.”
Recently, he has started hosting “Mapping Days” all across the country where volunteers help to map out neighborhoods using the AXS Map.
What are some other apps that you know of that have been designed with the disabled community in mind?
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