Sunday, July 19, 2009

The Need for Accessibility @ Home, Work & Play

Creating accessible environments for people is a provincial mandate in Ontario and a priority all over the world. Almost half of Canada’s total population is made up of those who are over the age of 45. We are aging in large numbers and seeking ways to remain independent. Since only 7% of Canadian seniors eventually move into a long term care facility, it leaves 93% Aging at home on their own, or with family and friends. 


We are facing a massive demographic shift and we will all feel the effects. We must improve accessibility now!

Business is becoming more aware that people who have special access needs expect, – and have the right to expect, – the same services and opportunities as everyone else: independent travel, accessible facilities, trained staff, reliable information and inclusive marketing. More accessible public and private buildings mean more people enjoying business and social opportunities. Society as a whole benefits when everyone can avail him/herself of job opportunities and spending because this results in a greater tax base for the community. Accessible environments benefit everyone!

The demand for accessibility offers real opportunities for renovators and builders to develop and incorporate accessible and Universal Design built for all.

ReliAble Independent Living Services ®, aims to meet this demand. As a Home Modification business founded in 2004, we aim to help make Canadian homes and businesses accessible to all. We bring together the home health care industry and the home and workplace modification industry– to share experiences, learn from each other and collaborate in joint projects and partnerships.

We support the development and propagation of good policies and practices as a means of raising awareness, increasing knowledge and cultivating expertise on accessibility standards in the “built environment”.

We have only just begun our work but we have our sights set clearly on the path ahead and on the ultimate goal - Accessibility for all.


Ronny Wiskin is the founder of Reliable Independent Living Services ®.


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