Inclusivity Beyond Ramps & Rails Designing Healthy Cities for Neurodiversity

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DESIGNING HEALTHY CITIES FOR NEURODIVERSITY

AGENDA

• Abstract

• Methodology

• Research Questions

• Research Core Aspects

• Introduction: Common Neurodiverse Conditions

• ASPECT 1: Promoting Mental Well-Being Through Urban Design

• ASPECT 2: Sensory Overload in Urban Environments

• ASPECT 3: Accessible Wayfinding and Information Systems

• ASPECT 4: AI Assertive Technology for Inclusivity

ABSTRACT

This research project investigates how to create inclusive and healthy cities that cater to the specific needs of people with neurodiverse conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) . It recognizes that the built environment can significantly impact the well - being of neurodiverse individuals and aims to identify strategies for creating more inclusive & supportive urban spaces.

METHODOLOGY

A comprehensive review of existing academic literature

ARTICLES

Research is conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in urban environments.

BOOKS This review will explore the impact of sensory overload

REPORTS

, inaccessible design features, & the lack of nature integration on their well - being.

REAL EXPERIENCES Additionally, research on the potential benefits of inclusive design principles,

URBAN PLANNERS accessible wayfinding systems, &the role of AI technology in promoting inclusion.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

QUESTION 1: Does integration with nature promote better health for the neurodiverse population?

QUESTION 2: Does sound, light & visual pollution contribute to the mental well-being of neurodiverse individuals?

QUESTION 3: Does the built infrastructure impact neurodiverse individual’s health?

QUESTION 4: Does the incorporation of AI technology increase the city’s inclusivity?

RESEARCH CORE ASPECTS

Common Neurodiverse Conditions

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• A developmental condition characterized by social communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• A neurodevelopmental disorder involving difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Dyslexia

•A learning disability affecting reading fluency and comprehension.

Dyscalculia:

•A learning disability affecting math skills.

Dyspraxia

• A motor skills disorder impacting coordination and fine motor skills.

Tourette Syndrome

•A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by tics (involuntary movements or sounds).

Dysgraphia, Sensory processing disorders, & certain mental health conditions

•(e.g., bipolar disorder) Alzheimer

ASPECT 1: Promoting mental well-being through urban design.

This aspect will analyze how harmonizing with nature through green spaces, community gardens, and access to nature can contribute to mental health in neurodiverse populations. This involves investigating the restorative effects of nature exposure, the potential benefits of therapeutic gardens, and the importance of incorporating biophilic design principles into urban environments. The intersection of the built environment in promoting mental well-being for people with neurodiversity disorders (NDDs) in cities.

Does integration with nature promote better health for the neurodiverse population?

This aspect will analyze how green spaces, community gardens, and access to nature can contribute to mental health in neurodiverse populations. (harmonizing with nature). This may involve investigating the restorative effects of nature exposure, the potential benefits of therapeutic gardens, and the importance of incorporating biophilic design principles into urban environments .



Promoting Mental Well - Being Through Urban Design

1.1 Therapeutic Effects of Nature Exposure

1.2 Green Spaces & Mental Wellbeing

1.3 Biophilic Design Principles

1.4 Health Benefits

1.5 Community Gardens & Therapeutic Gardens

1.6 Improved Mental Well-being

1.7 Neurodiverse Infrastructure Policy (NIP)

1.8 "Nature reduces the amount of cortisol."

1.9 Alzheimer’s & Nature

1.10 Strategies to enhance nature accessibility

 1.1 Therapeutic Effects of Nature Exposure

Desert parks affect the foot curve & develop dopamine & Nerval sensory abilities improving the resilience of ADHD children.

From my own experience," Leen

Assassa” as a mother of a clinically diagnosed premature son with ADHD who was born with no curve in his feet & lots of dopamine deficiency as well as deficiency in the brain center of self-control, taking him to “Jaw Sameen desert” in KSA helped his endurability & provided the curve in his feet as well as reduced his tantrums severity. It was proven as well that camel’s milk has a great effect in reducing the tantrums of autist children.

The inherent human bond with nature states that biophilia is the inherent bond that humanity has with its natural environment.

People have an affinity for all things living, whether it be plants or animals. Human’s historical connection with nature and this connection to creation. Wilson, 1984.

He proposes that our contact with nature shapes our brains.

He also suggests our brains are pre-equipped for a specific view of nature, and that this view would "persist from generation to generation.

 Forest Bathing:

Research on Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, a practice originating from Japan involving immersive experiences in forests, has shown reductions in cortisol levels after forest visits. A study published in 2010 by Qing Li and colleagues found that participants who engaged in forest bathing experienced lower cortisol levels compared to those who spent time in urban environments.

 Natural Environments:

Studies have found that simply being in natural environments, such as parks, gardens, or wilderness areas, can lead to decreases in cortisol levels. For example, a study published in 2014 by MaryCarol R. Hunter and colleagues found that spending time in urban green spaces was associated with lower cortisol levels among city residents.

 Viewing Nature:

Even passive exposure to natural elements, such as viewing nature scenes or having access to green views from windows, has been linked to reduced cortisol levels. A study published in 2018 by Danielle F. Shanahan and colleagues found that residents who had more greenery in their neighborhoods had lower cortisol levels compared to those living in areas with less greenery.

Biophilic design is the innate human tendency to seek connections with nature & other forms of life.

It incorporates elements of nature into built environments, aiming to enhance human well-being. This can include:

Integrating greenery into buildings and public spaces

Utilizing natural materials like wood and stone

Maximizing natural light and ventilation

Creating opportunities for views of nature

Spending time outdoors can trigger:

-The release of endorphins & dopamine

-Reduce cortisol levels, leading to feelings of well-being.

-Promote mindfulness

-Provide opportunities for physical activity, further contributing to mental health.

Reduce stress & anxiety

Improve mood & cognitive function

Promote social interaction & community building

Reduces stress & improves mood Boosts cognitive function Strengthens the immune system

Increases productivity & creativity Improves air quality Reduces noise pollution

Research shows that biophilia is a powerful tool in promoting healthier lifestyles & potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Here's how:

Increased Physical Activity:

The biophilic design encourages people to spend more time outdoors.

Access to parks, green spaces, & natural landscapes makes physical activity more appealing.

This can lead to increased exercise, reduced sedentary behavior,& ultimately, a healthier BMI.

Improved Mental Well-being:

Nature exposure reduces stress, improves mood, & boosts cognitive function. These mental well-being improvements often lead to better lifestyle choices, including healthier eating habits & increased motivation for exercise, all contributing to diabetes prevention.

Biophilic design is a sustainable solution with long-term benefits.

By creating cities that are more in harmony with nature, we can empower people to lead healthier lives and potentially reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, alongside other chronic health conditions.

Biophilia: A Natural Ally in Combating Diabetes

Richard Louv's 2011 book "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from “NatureDeficit Disorder”. The book focuses on the importance of children connecting with nature. Nature Connection: Louv emphasizes various ways children can connect with nature, such as playing in the dirt, exploring forests, or observing wildlife.

Unscripted Play: Nature allows for open-ended, creative play, which is crucial for children's emotional and cognitive development.

NATURE – ALZEHIEMER & DEMENTIA

Underscored by Jan Gehl, renowned for creating inclusive & people-centered urban spaces as highlighted in his "Cities for People" manifesto. His emphasis on the affordances of the built environment & infrastructure validates the elimination of barriers & promotes equitable participation in all aspects of community life & public space utilization.

This approach is backed by the research of David Burney, advocacy for cities that prioritize accessibility & social equity.

Sustainability & Equity for The Future: This is supported by the research of Richard Rogers who demonstrates the importance of inclusive design in creating healthy urban environments.

Influenced by Liz Ogbu work on community-engaged design projects & Toni Griffin who focused on redevelopment strategies that revitalize underserved communities & promote inclusivity & equity.

1.10 Strategies to Enhance Nature Accessibility

 Inclusive Public Spaces:

Integrating a network of connected green infrastructure such as public parks, pocket gardens, sports facilities & inclusive play areas within the scope of vacant & abandoned lands. This will enhance the mental & physical well-being of residents while simultaneously improving air quality & respite the bustling streets. By offering opportunities for active & passive recreation while catering to diverse abilities & neurodiversity.

 Inclusive Green Infrastructure Design Code & Neurodiverse Infrastructure Policy (NIP):

Ensure all green spaces are easily accessible, inclusive, & accommodate diverse abilities featuring: Lowered curbs, ramps, accessible pathways, accessible restrooms, sports facilities, adaptive seating, playgrounds with inclusive equipment, paved, accessible trails, tactile & braille signage in public spaces & consideration for neurodiversity through features like quiet zones & sensory gardens.

 Social Inclusion & Engagement:

Promoting social inclusion and engagement for neurodiverse individuals in open spaces involves creating welcoming environments that accommodate diverse needs and preferences while fostering opportunities for connection, interaction, and participation.

 Programming, Training & Recreational Activities:

Develop inclusive programming and events that cater to the interests and preferences of neurodiverse individuals, including nature walks, birdwatching tours, gardening workshops, and art classes. Offer sensory-friendly events with reduced stimuli, quiet hours, and designated sensory spaces to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities or processing differences.

 Adaptive Equipment and Assistive Devices:

Provide adaptive equipment and assistive devices to enhance accessibility and participation in nature activities for individuals with disabilities. Offer wheelchair-accessible nature trails, all-terrain wheelchairs, and mobility aids such as walkers or hiking poles for individuals with mobility impairments. Make available sensory-friendly resources such as noise-canceling headphones or visual support for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

 Sensory-Friendly Environments:

Design nature spaces with sensory-friendly features that accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities or processing differences. Incorporate elements such as quiet zones, shaded areas, and sensory gardens with tactile plants, fragrant flowers, and calming sensory stimuli to provide opportunities for relaxation and sensory exploration.

ASPECT 2: Sensory Overload in Urban Environments

Investigate strategies for mitigating noise pollution, visual clutter, and overwhelming sensory experiences in public spaces. This may involve analyzing the impact of traffic noise, street lighting, signage, and overall urban design on sensory processing in neurodiverse individuals. Does sound, light & visual pollution contribute to the mental well-being of neurodiverse individuals?

ASPECT 2: Sensory

Overload in Urban

Environments

2.1 Sensory Overload

2.2 Sensory Overload Triggers

2.3 Symptoms of Sensory Overload

2.4 Urban Sensory Overload

2.5 Strategies for Combating Sensory Overload

Coping Mechanism: Sensory overload is the body's way of saying "Enough!" It triggers a stress response to help manage the overwhelming situation.

Heightened anxiety

Irritability

Restlessness

Difficulty concentrating

Physical discomfort

Difficulty regulating emotions

Paralysis or difficulty making decisions

Meltdowns, or shutdowns (tantrums)

Auditory:

oLoud noises (traffic, sirens, construction)

oHigh-pitched sounds

oUnpredictable sounds (sudden noises)

oToo many sounds happening at once (crowded environments)

Visual:

oBright lights (including flickering lights)

oGlare

oVisual clutter (busy environments with lots of signs, advertisements)

oHarsh contrasts (black & white patterns)

oFast movements

Olfactory (Smell):

oStrong smells (perfumes, cleaning products, strong foods)

oUnpleasant smells

Gustatory (Taste):

oStrong flavors

oUnfamiliar textures in food

Tactile (Touch):

Other:

oCertain textures (clothing tags, rough fabrics)

oUnwanted touch (crowded spaces)

oExtreme temperatures (hot or cold)

oToo much information at once (complex instructions, crowded visual displays)

oLack of personal space

oIntense emotions in the environment

oRapid changes or transitions (e.g., sudden changes in lighting)

Sound Pollution:

• such as loud traffic, construction noise, or crowded environments, can be overwhelming & distressing, leading to increased stress, anxiety, or sensory overload. Prolonged exposure to loud or

Unpredictable Sounds:

• Construction noise, emergency sirens, or loud music from passing vehicles can be highly disruptive and startling for individuals with heightened auditory sensitivities. The lack of control over these sudden noises can escalate anxiety & overwhelm.

Light Pollution:

• Bright or flickering lights, glare, or harsh lighting can be aversive for neurodiverse individuals, exacerbating sensory sensitivities and causing discomfort or distress. Light pollution from streetlights, neon signs, or electronic screens can interfere with visual processing and contribute to sensory overload, headaches, or eyestrain. Additionally, disruptions to natural light-dark cycles can disrupt circadian rhythms and negatively affect sleep quality and mood regulation, further impacting mental well-being.

Visual Pollution:

• Visual clutter, chaotic environments, or overwhelming visual stimuli can also affect the mental well-being of neurodiverse individuals.

Visual pollution from crowded urban landscapes, excessive signage, or cluttered workspaces can increase sensory overwhelm and make it difficult for individuals to focus, process information, or maintain a sense of calm. Simplifying visual environments and reducing unnecessary visual stimuli can help alleviate stress and promote mental well-being for neurodiverse individuals.

Crowded Spaces:

• Dense crowds on public transport or in busy areas can trigger feelings of claustrophobia and make it difficult to manage personal space. Navigating through a throng of people often involves unexpected contact and unpredictable movements, which can be overwhelming for those with tactile sensitivities or social anxiety.

Lack of Clear Signage:

• Poorly designed signage with unclear symbols, excessive text, or confusing layouts can be frustrating for everyone, but particularly challenging for individuals with visual processing difficulties or autism. This can create a barrier to navigation and independence in urban environments.

 Strategies for Combating Sensory Overload

 Design Quiet Spaces:

Create designated quiet spaces or sensory retreats where individuals can retreat when they need a break from noisy environments. These spaces should have sound-absorbing materials, comfortable seating, and calming sensory features to promote relaxation and stress relief.

 Establish Quiet Hours:

Implement designated quiet hours or periods of reduced noise levels in communal areas, workplaces, or educational settings to accommodate individuals sensitive to sound. Encourage respectful behavior and awareness of noise levels during these times to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. “Woolworths quiet hour, where, at over 260 stores across Australia on Tuesdays between 10.30 am and 11.30 am, stores lower lights, turn down the music, and turn off oven buzzers to provide a quieter and less stimulating environment for those with anxiety and sensory processing difficulties.”

 Implement Soundproofing:

Use soundproofing techniques such as acoustic panels, rugs, curtains, or double-glazed windows to reduce noise transmission between rooms or from external sources. This can help create quieter, more peaceful indoor environments that are less disruptive to individuals with sensory sensitivities.

 Use Shielded Lighting Fixtures:

Install shielded lighting fixtures that direct light downward and minimize light spillage and glare. Full-cut-off fixtures are particularly effective in reducing upward light emissions, preventing light pollution in the night sky, and improving visibility and safety on the ground.

 Implement Smart Lighting Controls:

Utilize smart lighting technologies and controls that allow for dynamic adjustments in brightness levels, timing, and color temperature based on pedestrian activity, time of day, or environmental conditions. Adaptive lighting systems can optimize energy efficiency while minimizing light pollution and sensory discomfort for neurodiverse individuals.

 Dark Sky-Friendly Design:

Adopt dark sky-friendly design principles that prioritize minimizing light pollution and preserving natural darkness in urban environments. Implement lighting ordinances, zoning regulations, or design guidelines that restrict excessive or intrusive outdoor lighting and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices.

 Strategies for Combating Sensory Overload

 Organize Streetscapes:

Design streetscapes and public spaces with organized layouts and clear visual hierarchy to minimize visual clutter. Use consistent design elements, spacing, and alignment to create cohesive and intuitive environments that are easy to navigate for neurodiverse individuals.

 Declutter Public Spaces:

Remove unnecessary street furniture, barriers, obstacles, and visual obstructions from public spaces to create open and uncluttered environments. Prioritize functional simplicity and visual clarity in the design of urban amenities and furnishings to minimize sensory overwhelm for neurodiverse individuals.

 Create Visual Buffer Zones:

Designate visual buffer zones or transitional spaces between busy urban areas and quieter environments to provide sensory relief and gradual adaptation for neurodiverse individuals. Use landscaping, vegetation, or architectural elements to create natural barriers that visually separate different zones and reduce sensory overload.

 Provide Visual Rest Areas:

Integrate visual rest areas or sensory retreats into urban environments where individuals can take breaks and find respite from visual stimulation. Design these spaces with soothing colors, comfortable seating, and natural elements to create calming environments that promote relaxation and sensory restoration.

By acknowledging these challenges and implementing strategies to mitigate sensory overload, we can create more inclusive and welcoming urban spaces for everyone.

ASPECT 3: Accessible Wayfinding and Information Systems

This aspect will explore how to design clear and intuitive signage, maps, and inclusive public announcements for people with cognitive or learning disabilities. (street infrastructure). This may involve researching the effectiveness of different wayfinding symbols, color palettes, and information delivery methods for neurodiverse populations. Does the built infrastructure impact neurodiverse individual’s health?

ASPECT 3: Accessible Wayfinding and Information Systems

3.1 Neurodiversity and the Built Environment Challenges

3.2 Strategies for Creating Inclusive Accessible Wayfinding



Neurodiversity and the Built Environment challenges

 Neurodiverse individuals encounter challenges in the built environment, including sensory processing difficulties, communication issues, and restricted patterns of behavior.

 The built environment often lacks functionality, hindering physical and intellectual development and limiting the inclusion of neurodivergent individuals in society.

 Awareness of these obstacles among architects and society is limited, particularly regarding ASD and Asperger Syndrome.

 Experiences in the built environment can evoke feelings of loss of control, disempowerment, rejection, anger, and despondency among individuals with disabilities.

 Addressing these challenges through inclusive design, accessibility improvements, and community engagement can foster more supportive and inclusive urban environments.

 Signage and wayfinding are critical for aiding neurodiverse individuals, including those with cognitive disabilities and dementia, in navigating their surroundings effectively.

 Current wayfinding technologies often fall short for people with disabilities, emphasizing the need for inclusive building design and effective signage evaluation frameworks.

 Innovative solutions, such as geo-coded QR codes and social computing, show promise in increasing independence and mobility for cognitive-impaired individuals.

 Creating accessible and user-friendly signage and wayfinding systems is crucial for supporting the diverse needs of neurodiverse populations and enhancing their quality of life.

 Intuitive Signage:

 Strategies for Creating Inclusive Accessible Wayfinding

Essential for aiding neurodiverse individuals in navigating environments, emphasizing intuitive instructional information & graphical elements like pictograms to improve user experience.

 Multi-Sensory Experiences:

Design built infrastructure to engage multiple senses, incorporating tactile pathways, sensory gardens, and aromatherapy features to stimulate sensory exploration and creativity.

 Infrastructure Declutters:

Address infrastructural deficits, implementing Universal Design Principles (UDL) principles.

 Color & Neurodiversity:

Incorporate urban wayfinding colors representing various elements to enhance navigation experiences for neurodiverse individuals, promoting accessibility & inclusive design principles.

 Strategies for Creating Inclusive Accessible Wayfinding

 Interactive & Overview Maps: Develop interactive maps tailored to neurodiverse individuals, enhancing autonomy and task management in urban environments while fostering independence and contributing to urban accessibility.

 Universal Design Infrastructure Policy (UDIP): Prioritize adherence to Universal Design Code for all new infrastructure, retrofitting streets and sidewalks for diverse needs, promoting walkability, and fostering inclusive urban environments.

 Fostering Inclusion Culture & Community Awareness: Conduct regular training programs and community events on disability awareness and inclusive practices, partnering with advocacy groups to ensure accessibility considerations.

 Urban Design & Streetscape Enhancement: Collaborate with urban planners to create pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, implement traffic calming measures, establish pedestrian priority zones, and install accessible infrastructure like lowered curbs and braille signage.

ASPECT 4: AI Assertive Technology for Inclusivity

This aspect will research and explore emerging technologies that can assist people with neurodiversity in navigating and interacting with the built environment. This may involve investigating the potential of AI-powered navigation apps, sensory-calming technologies, and other assistive tools that can promote greater independence and well-being in urban spaces.

Does the incorporation of AI technology increase the city’s inclusivity?

4: AI Assertive Technology for Inclusivity

4.1 AI Role in Inclusivity

4.2 Challenges and Considerations

4.3 Strategies to utilize AI for inclusivity

AI Role in Inclusivity

AI-powered Navigation Apps: Personalized Routing:

• These navigation apps can utilize AI algorithms to provide personalized, accessible routes that consider individuals' sensory sensitivities & physical limitations. By analyzing real-time data on noise levels, crowd density, & visual stimuli, suggesting routes that minimize sensory overload and optimize comfort.

Sensory-Calming Technologies: AI-powered Noise Cancellation:

• AI apps or devices that help manage sensory overload. For example, noise-canceling headphones with customizable settings could be controlled by AI automatically filter out traffic noise in busy areas but allow for ambient sounds like approaching traffic signals.

Multi-Sensory Navigation:

• These apps provide audio descriptions of surroundings, integrate with haptic feedback wearables for directional guidance, or offer augmented reality overlays highlighting important landmarks or wayfinding elements

Calming App Integration:

•AI apps personalize calming strategies . For example, an app suggest specific breathing exercises based on a user's heart rate data or recommend calming music based on past preferences.

Social Interaction Support Tools:

• AI-Powered chatbots or virtual assistants can offer communication support and reduce social anxiety.

AI-Controlled Street Lights:

• Streetlights that adjust brightness based on real-time factors like pedestrian activity, time of day, and even noise levels. This create a more calming nighttime environment for individuals sensitive to light pollution. AI algorithms can adjust street light intensity & color temperature to create a more comfortable & visually pleasing environment for neurodiverse individuals, reducing glare & minimizing sensory distractions.

AI Adaptive Soundproofing Materials:

• AI used to develop building materials or urban soundscapes that actively adjust noise levels. This involves walls that absorb sound in noisy areas or public spaces with calming sound installations that adapt to manage ambient noise. these materials adjust their acoustic properties to dampen sound transmission & minimize auditory stimuli. This technology help create quieter and more peaceful urban environments, reducing sensory overload for neurodiverse individuals.

Challenges and Considerations

 Privacy Concerns: AI systems collect and analyze data to personalize experiences. It's crucial to ensure user privacy and data security.

 Accessibility Affordability: These technologies should be accessible and affordable for everyone, regardless of income or technical expertise.

 Human Interaction and Socialization: While AI can offer support, face-to-face social interaction remains important. These technologies should complement, not replace, opportunities for social connection.

Strategies to Utilize AI for Inclusivity

 The Complete Smart Streets Policy emphasizes prioritizing pedestrian-friendly elements in transportation projects and road renovations, including wider sidewalks and improved crossings.

 Assertive Technology Infrastructure involves integrating AI technology to empower people with disabilities (POD) to navigate independently, with features like tailored GPS navigation and adaptive lighting.

 Sensory-Friendly Environments use AI sensors to adjust lighting and noise levels to reduce sensory overload.

 Interactive Wayfinding Systems offer customizable navigation support for neurodiverse individuals, including AR overlays and voice-guided directions.

 Social Inclusion Platforms connect neurodiverse individuals with community resources and events, promoting social connections and reducing isolation.

 Efforts to enhance accessibility and inclusivity have traditionally focused on physical disabilities, such as ramps and rails. However, there's a growing recognition of the need to extend inclusivity to neurodiverse individuals for truly healthy cities.

 This shift involves considering their unique needs, like providing access to natural environments and creating sensory-friendly spaces in urban areas.

 Implementing infrastructure, such as quiet areas and interactive wayfinding systems, is crucial, as is leveraging AI technologies for personalized support.

 Adopting a Neurodiverse Infrastructure Policy can formalize this commitment, ensuring urban environments cater to the diverse needs of all residents, resulting in healthier, more welcoming cities for everyone.

Conclusion

REFERENCES ARE IN THE RESEARCH PAPER