Did you know that users of wheelchairs, strollers, and canes can find accessible "shops" and "routes" more easily and reliably by utilizing Google Maps' accessibility settings?
"I wish there were more information on wheelchair-friendly shops and hotels!" "If only I could travel to my destination via an accessible route, going out would be so much easier..."
Google Maps' accessibility features offer the following benefits, helping to resolve issues for wheelchair and stroller users:
- Instantly identify wheelchair-accessible shops
- Easily find accessible routes
Additionally, if you're thinking, "I want to enjoy more accessible restaurants and hotels, but I don't know how to search on Google Maps," or "I want to make the most of Google Maps' features more easily!" the accessibility settings are straightforward.
This article will provide detailed information on the following two aspects, especially for wheelchair and stroller users:
- How to set up a list of wheelchair-accessible shops on Google Maps
- How to set up accessible routes on Google Maps
Reference: Find wheelchair-accessible places | Maps Help | Google
1. 5 Steps to Search for Accessible Shops on Google Maps!
"I want to make a reservation at an accessible shop where I can enter with peace of mind for my next outing with friends..."
In such cases, by setting Google Maps as follows, you can easily find shops that accommodate wheelchair users. (We recommend checking whether your device is Android or Apple.)
Step 1. Open Google Maps
Step 2. Tap the round icon of your account in the search bar of Google Maps
Step 3. Tap the gear icon "Settings"
Step 4. Tap "Accessibility Settings"
Step 5. Turn on "Highlight wheelchair-accessible places" in Accessibility Settings
That's it!
You can see an even clearer video of the setup process on Ayumi's Instagram.
2. Route Search Feature Added to Google Maps!
Once you've decided on an accessible shop using Google Maps, the next step is to find an accessible route to get there.
One of the challenges wheelchair users face is the presence of stairs or steps on the way to their destination. This is also true for those using strollers or canes.
Ideally, the path from the station or bus stop to an accessible shop should also be accessible.
3-4. For Families with Children with Developmental Disabilities
One of the challenges when going out with a child with developmental disabilities is that the child may become noisy at the destination. As a solution, informing them in advance about the planned destination and scenery can help reassure the child with developmental disabilities.
Once an outing is decided, show them the destination on Google Maps. Set a barrier-free route with thoughtful consideration to ensure a safe journey.
Developmental disabilities come with various symptoms. If stores are understanding, the child feels more at ease. It's better to dine at places that understand developmental disabilities rather than those that lack understanding.
When choosing a dining spot on Google Maps, select a barrier-free restaurant in advance.
4. Impressions of Using Google Maps Features
I tried setting up barrier-free restaurants and routes on Google Maps.
Initially, I attempted to set up the barrier-free settings without any prior knowledge, which led to confusion about where to click for the settings.
Then, I watched Ayumi's "Instagram Setup Guide" video and tried again. It provided clearer instructions, allowing me to complete the setup quickly and accurately!
Watching a video for real-time guidance on the next steps is highly recommended.
You can view Ayumi's Instagram guide on "Setting Up Barrier-Free Restaurant Search on Google Maps" here.
The "Google Maps Barrier-Free Route Search Method" is available here.
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