Tips for Low-Cost Accommodations

Many exchange advisors assume that accommodating people with disabilities in their programs will be prohibitively expensive. In fact, many accommodations are cost-free or quite inexpensive. The key to finding low-cost solutions is to foster open communication with the exchange participant and to think broadly about the possibilities and resources available to the organization and the student.

Do not be surprised if disabled participants do not require any special accommodations. Many people with disabilities own the equipment they need for everyday life and will only need minimal assistance from others. Remember that each individual participant will have a unique approach to his or her own disability. Recognize that finding reasonable adaptations is a process of negotiation between exchange coordinators and the participant; the goal of both parties is to ensure that participant has a successful international experience.

Accommodating People who Use Wheelchairs

• Buildings with few steps can be made accessible with portable ramps. People use everything from homemade wood ramps to motorcycle ramps, up to more expensive ramps designed specifically for wheelchair use. Use the resources available in the host community.
• Some people with disabilities may need to have tables, chairs or beds adjusted for their use. To make tables higher, place blocks of wood under the legs. To lower tables or chairs, cut the legs down with a hand saw.
• Another issue to consider is the availability of accessible toilet facilities. A portable commode can be an excellent solution to this problem. This can also double as a shower chair or a seat. Commodes can be rented or purchased through medical equipment suppliers. This simple adaptation can create improved access for people with physical disabilities who are willing to temporarily compromise dignity for adventure’s sake.
• Shower chairs make it possible for many people with mobility impairments to shower independently. Shower chairs come in many shapes and sizes; consult individual participants to find out what works best for them. Plastic resin lawn chairs make inexpensive shower chairs if a regular shower chair is not available.

Accommodating Blind or Visually Impaired People

• Have tape recorders available for blind or visually impaired individuals who may wish to use them for note taking. Participants can use tape recorders to respond to questions, evaluations and tests in which others are writing responses. In group discussions, activities and demonstrations, be aware of gestures and illustrations that must be seen to be understood--develop the habit of describing these things as they are taking place or being demonstrated. Sometimes during a visually oriented activity, a visually impaired person may request that a sighted partner carry on a running description of the action.

Accommodating People with Hearing Impairments

• Make use of new technologies, such as text telephones, captioning and email when communicating with someone who is deaf. In other countries, fax machines are sometimes used when other telecommunications are not available. When possible, plan ahead by including the cost of interpreters as part of the program budget. For formal situations, such as orientation meetings, seminars or class sessions, hire skilled interpreters (some are available through video conferencing or video relay services for remote meetings). For informal situations, it may be possible to make do with gestures, volunteer students from sign language classes, writing back and forth and other creative solutions. Some service organizations, such as the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus and Rotary International may be able to help raise funds for interpreting.

Accommodating People with Learning Disabilities

• Often people with learning disabilities can use taped materials in place of printed materials. Tape recorders may also provide an option for note taking and completing examinations and evaluations for students with learning disabilities. When a participant of your program has difficulty with reading, use drawings, symbols, and actions rather than written words to illustrate ideas. For test taking, some possible strategies are to arrange for the student to take the exam in a separate, quiet room, allow for extra time to complete the exam and provide short breaks between each portion of the test.

_{Although efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, MIUSA/NCDE cannot be held liable for inaccuracy, misinterpretation or complaints arising from these listings. Mention of an organization, company, service or resource should not be construed as an endorsement by MIUSA/NCDE. Please advise NCDE of any inaccuracies you may find.}