Perceptions of Paratransit Accessibility Among Persons With Disabilities: An Adapted Photovoice Study

This article describes an adapted photovoice study that explored the facilitators and barriers to accessing paratransit services among people with disabilities. This 18-month study involved adults with disabilities developing photovoice stories about their paratransit experiences in Eastern Canada. The photovoice stories represent an in-depth examination of the familial, social, geographical, and environmental factors and their complex association with paratransit services. Distributing the photovoice stories through social media also served as a practical application of health promotion as the process allowed for a broader audience reach to bear witness to the experiences of participants from the disability community. Discussion includes recommendations for developing and sustaining responsive paratransit services with the assertion that persons with disabilities are at the forefront in making informed changes and improvements in ensuring transportation is accessible for everyone.