Sensory accessibility is not just about getting into a space, it is about being able to stay, participate, and feel comfortable once inside.
We often understand accessibility in terms of physical access. Can someone enter a
space? Is there a ramp, an elevator, or a clear path? While these things are crucial,
physical access alone does not make a space truly accessible.
Bright lights, loud sounds, and crowded environments can quickly become
overwhelming. What feels manageable for one person may be stressful or even painful
for others
What Is Sensory Overload in Sensory Accessibility?
Sensory overload happens when sensory input becomes overwhelming and difficult for
the brain to process¹. This can come from lights, sounds, movement, or multiple inputs
occurring simultaneously. When this happens, a person may feel tired, anxious, or
unwell. They may develop a headache or feel the need to leave immediately.
Who Is Affected?
In Canada, many people live with conditions that affect how they experience sensory
environments.
Sensory sensitivities can affect people in many different ways and across a wide range
of conditions.
For example, about 1 in 50 Canadian children and youth are diagnosed with autism².
Many experience sensory differences that can make light, sound, and visual input feel
more intense. This can lead to distress, shutdown, or needing to leave a space.
Migraine is another example. It affects millions of people worldwide³. Light sensitivity,
especially from fluorescent or harsh lighting, is a common trigger. Noise can also worsen
symptoms. This can result in severe headaches, nausea, and difficulty concentrating⁴.
Anxiety disorders are also common. In Canada, approximately 1 in 4 people will
experience a mental health problem or illness in any given year⁵.
People may feel on edge, have difficulty concentrating, or become overwhelmed, especially in busy or
unpredictable environments⁶.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can also affect how people experience
sensory environments. Many children and adults live with ADHD, and it is one of the
most common neurodevelopmental conditions⁶. People with ADHD may have difficulty
maintaining focus and are more easily distracted, especially in environments with noise,
movement, or visual clutter.
People recovering from concussions frequently experience sensitivity to light and sound.
In Canada, about 1.6 percent of people aged 12 and older reported a concussion in the
previous 12 months⁷. Common symptoms can also include headaches, dizziness, and
fatigue⁸.
These experiences and many others can affect whether someone is able to stay in a
store, attend an event, complete an appointment, or participate in their community.
Designing Spaces That Support Sensory Accessibility
Comfort kits are helpful, but they are only one part of a broader approach.
The design of a space also matters. Quiet or low stimulation areas give people a place
to step away and reset without leaving entirely.
Even small adjustments can have an impact. Softer lighting, reduced background noise,
and clear layouts can make spaces easier to navigate and more comfortable to use.
At BarrierFree, we work with organizations to understand how their spaces are
experienced and identify practical changes that improve accessibility, paying close
attention to how lighting, sound, and other sensory elements shape that experience
A Lived Reality
As someone who lives with migraines and post-concussion symptoms, this is part of my
daily life.
In highly stimulating environments, I use earplugs or headphones and light-filtering
glasses. Even with these tools, there are times when the environment becomes too
much.
When that happens, I often find myself escaping to the washroom to reset. Not because
they are designed for it, but because there is nowhere else to go.
A quiet, low-stimulation space would make a meaningful difference. It would allow for
recovery without having to leave completely.
Why Sensory Accessibility Matters for Organizations
Sensory accessibility helps organizations create environments where people can remain present, focused, and comfortable. When sensory needs are considered during design and planning, spaces become easier to navigate and more welcoming for a wider range of individuals.
Sensory accessibility does not require large structural changes; often, thoughtful adjustments to lighting, sound levels, and spatial layout can significantly improve user experience.
By understanding sensory accessibility, organizations demonstrate commitment to inclusion while improving overall usability for employees, visitors, and customers alike.
Moving Forward With Sensory Accessibility
There has been real progress in how accessibility is understood. More organizations are
recognizing that it is not only about physical access, but also about how a space is
experienced.
By continuing to listen, ask questions, and make thoughtful changes, we can create
spaces where more people feel comfortable, included, and able to participate.
Accessibility is not just about meeting standards. It is about making sure everyone can
take part in everyday experiences barrier-free.
References (APA)
- Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Sensory overload. Link
- Public Health Agency of Canada. (2023). Autism spectrum disorder among children and youth in Canada. Link
- World Health Organization. (2023). Headache disorders. Link
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Migraine. Link
- Mental Health Commission of Canada. (2023). Mental health in Canada. Link
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). ADHD and anxiety overview. Link
- Statistics Canada. (2023). Self-reported concussions in Canada. Link
- Parachute Canada. (2019). Concussion guide. Link