Mobility and access to transport issues as experienced by people with vision impairment living in urban and rural Ireland

Abstract

Purpose. The loss of vision is associated with the impairment of functional ability, including a reduced ability to move around and to utilise all forms of transport. Walking in unfamiliar environments is challenging and driving becomes a legal prohibition. This article explores mobility and access to transport issues of urban and rural dwelling people with vision impairment in Ireland.

Methods. Fourteen focus groups took place consisting of 121 people with vision impairment resident in both urban and rural Ireland. Participant selection was representative of the vision impaired community. Data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results. Poor access to public transport and a perceived absence of public awareness about vision impairment are evident from this study. Customised disability awareness training is deemed essential for both the public and transport staff. Difficulties with access issues within the physical environment are highlighted.

Conclusion. The lack of availability of accessible transport creates an increased dependency on friends and family, and restricts access to medical, social and rehabilitative services. This study highlights issues concerning inequality of access to appropriate transport for rural vision impaired persons. These issues need to be brought to the attention of social planners and local government.

Keywords:

• Vision impairment
• mobility
• transport

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the staff of the NCBI in the Republic of Ireland and the Blind Centre, Northern Ireland for their assistance in organising the focus groups. They also extend a very special thanks to all their focus group participants for the generous donation of their time and thoughts. Thanks to the Baxter foundation and the Health Research Board (HRB), who part-funded this study.