Patricia A. Fletcher
Union Institute & University
USA
Title: The Cultural Meaning of the Wheelchair Symbol for the Aging Population
Biography
Biography: Patricia A. Fletcher
Abstract
The demographic shift of the aging population will affect all aspects of society. Therefore, it is important for this group to interpret the meaning of a symbol, which is critical in helping them improve hearing, vision, and literacy as the mobility-impaired individual increases. The purpose of this paper is to identify the role of the disability placard and plate artifact. Specially addressing, how this visual communication will help, older adults use signage to provide daily application and acceptance, and seeks to understand the cultural indicators that can affect the delivery of meaning. The negotiated artifact (Wenger, 1998, p.89) used to enhance a shared meaning among all age groups, making it easy to identify the symbol of the wheelchair. As it widens the range of meaning for placard/plate and demonstrates the necessity for the symbol. In fact, this community interaction is essential for creating policies that will help everyone improve the translation and acceptance of symbols in any language. This accommodation is a stored pictorial content found on license plates, maps, parking signs for designated spots, located outside a restroom needed to clarify instructions. This example of Wenger, 1998, p.107) standardization will show a wheelchair on every disability placard and plate, for a universal understanding of a policy that interprets someone needs of mobility assistance. The author explains the important for the public’s visual recognition and understanding of this symbol will lead to additional discoveries of how visual language can improve cognitive function with memory loss. Keywords: handicap, signs, disability placard, aging, elderly, wheelchair, international symbols, handicap, icon, mobility, visual literacy, pictograms, mobility