One of the most challenging adaptations required of a person with visual impairment is to travel independently and to learn to cope with architectural and other barriers. One of the most important skills for blind and low vision travelers to develop is the ability to form a concept of their surroundings. Blind people need more than route finding. As important as route finding is, the blind and visually impaired need to develop a sense of their own location and orientation in space. The benefits of this include improved safety in public spaces, the ability for independent exploration with the intent to gather information, enhanced spatial awareness, organized scanning skills and part to whole assembly.
Tactile maps, especially those with an audio component, have myriad advantages:- They are cost effective
- They allow for independent exploration and orientation in space to gather information leading to greater spatial awareness, independence and enhanced exploration.
- They can display precise location of building entrances, points of interest and vital areas in public spaces. Can pinpoint sites of restrooms, ticket machines, fire escapes, subway access and any other important features particular to a given location.
- Tactile maps can be used in interior spaces to allow blind or low vision individuals to navigate internal spaces and gain understanding of the routes needed to move freely and independently within a designated area.
Tactile Maps for Public Institutions At Woodlake Technologies, we specialize in creating customized tactile maps which address the problem of navigating through the world when blind. Our maps give visitors a hands-on understanding of the venue and the spatial relationships of it’s landmarks. We create and produce tactile maps for campuses, schools, office suites, floor plans, public spaces and more.
Contact 312-733-9800 and e-mail info@woodlaketechnologies.com
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