The Invisibility of Disabilities: Travel Training Individuals with Hidden Disabilities
Jeffrey Dennis, Senior Research Specialist and Senior Travel Instructor at NJTIP @ Rutgers, recently joined the ATI (Association of Travel Instruction) board and has written an entry for their website addressing “Hidden Disabilities” and how the people he trains often experience discrimination based on their disability. Jeffrey discusses how he and other travel instructors are helping their trainees advocate for change to public transit services and policies.
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Public transportation is essential for many people and provides access to employment, education, healthcare, and social activities. However, for an individual with an invisible disability, using public transportation can be a challenging task. Hidden disabilities such as chronic pain, sensory processing disorders, or anxiety disorders often go unnoticed and are not accommodated in public transportation systems. The lack of awareness and accommodation can make public transportation overwhelming and exhausting for such an individual.