As technology has evolved, multisensory experiences have become common elements of venues and attractions. From immersive art installations that surround visitors in light and sound to VR-based amusement centers that plunge users into other worlds, the senses have become a focus across industries. When designing venues or attractions, accessibility should go beyond the considerations of a modular access system—it should include how those with different abilities can be included. Our sensory needs and perceptions range widely, and accessibility means finding ways to make these experiences enjoyable for everyone.
Potential Challenges Faced in Multisensory Experiences
There are several accessibility issues that multisensory experiences can have, often without intending to limit inclusion. Many attractions are designed by those who are not affected by sensory or mobility differences and don’t see through that lens.
- Events or attractions that rely on sound cues to alert the participant—think of a VR game that uses noises off-screen to let you know a creature is nearing you—will be difficult for someone with hearing limitations to enjoy.
- On the opposite end, movie theaters with loud speakers and flashing lights are extremely overwhelming for those sensitive to noise and stimulation.
- Multisensory experiences that rely on mobility throughout a space, especially one with low lighting or at different heights, may be difficult for those who require access ramps if none are present.
- Large crowds may cause sensory overwhelm for people and can also pose a safety risk for those with limited mobility or balance deficits.
Making Accessibility Possible for Multisensory Experiences
As knowledge and awareness of accessibility increases, more emphasis is being placed on designing multisensory experiences with inclusion.
- Immersive experiences, including interactive museum exhibits, are providing children with different ways of taking part in the space. From digital touch-based coloring walls to color-saturated rooms, organizations are using a variety of approaches so that there is something for everyone.
- Movie theaters are offering showings with reduced noise, captions, audio descriptions, and house lighting to accommodate needs across different visitors. This provides opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy an outing to the theater, even if the traditional setting wouldn’t meet their needs.
- Accessible playgrounds are designed to include tactile stimulation and bold colors, creating sensory input and interaction that goes beyond usual playgrounds.
- Instead of making accessibility an afterthought, designers are including it from the initial planning onward. By accounting for differences in mobility or in the way people experience things, accessibility becomes built into the experience versus being poorly wedged in later. This includes everything from floor plans with commercial wheelchair ramps to recording audio descriptions that allow those with visual impairments to experience the space.
EZ-ACCESS® continues to champion the need for accessibility across environments. Whether that’s developing solutions for physical mobility or sensory accommodations for audio and visual needs, being able to experience the world is a human right. We continue to be advocates for a world without barriers and can’t wait to see the continued changes across industries, making that world a reality.
Have a multisensory event or exhibit that needs an ADA-compliant ramp? Tag our Customer Service team to get the perfect one for your space!
