Introduction
Imagine a world where catching the bus or train is a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone. This might seem like a simple dream, but for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), navigating public transportation can present significant challenges.
A recent scoping review published in July 2024 titled “The whole journey chain with public transport for people with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder–a scoping review,” sheds light on these challenges and explores how public transport systems can become more inclusive.
Why is the “Whole Journey Chain” Important?
Many studies on public transport accessibility focus solely on the act of riding a bus, train, or tram. This research, however, emphasizes the importance of considering the entire travel experience – the “whole journey chain.” This broader perspective acknowledges that a successful public transport trip for individuals with ASD and ADHD involves several stages, each presenting potential hurdles:
- Planning and Preparation: Researching routes, understanding schedules, and anticipating potential disruptions can be overwhelming for some individuals. Unfamiliar information formats, complex websites, or rapidly changing timetables can all contribute to anxiety.
- Pre-trip Activities: Getting to the station or stop on time and feeling comfortable in the waiting area can be challenges. Crowded spaces, loud noises, or a lack of clear signage can all lead to sensory overload and stress.
- Boarding and Travel: Crowds, unpredictable delays, and confusing announcements can contribute to anxiety. Sensory overload from noise and bright lights can also be overwhelming.
- Alighting and Post-trip Activities: Finding the correct exit and navigating unfamiliar surroundings can cause stress. Unclear signage or lack of designated drop-off points can add to the difficulty.
Understanding these different stages is crucial for developing strategies to support individuals with ASD and ADHD in using public transportation more confidently and independently.
Key Findings of the Review
The researchers analyzed 11 studies published between 2012 and 2022 to understand the experiences of individuals with ASD and ADHD on public transport. Here are some key takeaways:
- Planning and preparation emerged as a critical yet under-addressed aspect. Individuals who felt confident in planning their journeys were more likely to navigate public transport successfully. Studies highlighted the need for user-friendly journey planning tools with clear and accessible information, including visual aids and step-by-step instructions.
- Unexpected changes or disruptions caused significant stress. Reliable information and clear signage were identified as crucial for promoting a sense of security. Real-time updates on delays and disruptions, along with readily available assistance from staff, could significantly reduce anxiety for travelers with ASD and ADHD.
- Sensory overload from noise and bright lights could be overwhelming. Design features that create quieter and calmer environments would be beneficial. This could include designated quiet zones on vehicles, dimmed lighting at stations, and the use of noise-cancelling headphones as a personal coping mechanism.
The Road Ahead: Making Public Transport More Accessible
The study highlights the need for further research to develop targeted interventions and support systems specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with ASD and ADHD who rely on public transport. Here are some potential areas for improvement:
- Developing user-friendly journey planning tools with clear and accessible information. These tools should be available in multiple formats, including visual aids and text-to-speech options.
- Implementing training programs for public transport staff to increase understanding of ASD and ADHD. Training should equip staff with the skills to recognize and respond to the needs of travelers with these conditions.
- Creating designated quiet zones on public transport vehicles to provide a sensory refuge. These zones could offer reduced lighting, comfortable seating, and limited noise distractions.
- Ensuring clear and consistent signage and announcements to minimize confusion. Signage should be simple, easy to understand, and available in multiple languages. Announcements should be clear, concise, and repeated regularly.
By implementing these recommendations, public transport systems can become more inclusive and accessible for everyone, including individuals with ASD and ADHD. This will not only enhance their independence and quality of life, but also contribute to a more vibrant and inclusive society for all.
Source:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01441647.2024.2372495