Creating an inclusive mall environment with the PRECEDE-PROCEED model: a living lab case study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation science
• Community-based participatory research
• Environmental psychology

Background:

• Public environments often fail to accommodate diverse populations, limiting social inclusion and participation.
• The Rehabilitation Living Lab in the Mall project aims to create an inclusive shopping environment in Montreal.
• Addressing environmental barriers is crucial for the rehabilitation process and independent living.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply the PRECEDE-PROCEDE Model (PPM) as a framework for developing an inclusive shopping mall.
• To optimize participation and social inclusion for all individuals within a public space.
• To demonstrate a replicable model for creating inclusive environments globally.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the PRECEDE-PROCEDE Model (PPM), a nine-step community-oriented planning framework.
• Applied an ecological approach considering environmental, social, and individual factors.
• Synthesized information to identify and prioritize key issues for mall inclusivity.

Main Results:

• The PPM effectively guided the development, implementation, and evaluation of an inclusive mall.
• The model facilitated the synthesis of diverse information and prioritization of inclusivity issues.
• The project demonstrated the feasibility of transforming a complex public space into a more inclusive environment.

Conclusions:

• The PRECEDE-PROCEDE Model (PPM) is a suitable framework for creating inclusive public environments.
• Improving environmental inclusivity positively impacts social participation and rehabilitation outcomes.
• This approach offers valuable insights for global initiatives aiming to enhance accessibility and inclusion.