Universal Design Standards for Wayfinding Systems for the Blind and Visually Impaired to Improve Quality of Life

Wayfinding is an information system that helps individuals navigate through different environments. A well-designed system enhances spatial experience and creates a sense of place. For blind and visually impaired individuals, wayfinding presents significant challenges due to their inability to interact with visual elements. Developing effective wayfinding systems for this group is essential for improving their independence and quality of life. As communication tools advance, designing for visually impaired individuals has become a critical human rights issue. This research aims to apply universal design principles to wayfinding systems for the blind and visually impaired by integrating tactile signage and maps. This integration ensures the effectiveness of environmental information systems, enhancing quality of life, independence, and safe mobility in public spaces. The study analyzes the challenges these individuals face during navigation, highlighting the importance of combining visual, tactile, and auditory elements to enable safe and easy navigation. The significance of this research lies in improving the quality of life for blind and visually impaired individuals by creating safer environments that facilitate better communication and wayfinding, reducing daily obstacles. The research employs a descriptive methodology to examine universal design standards for incorporating tactile signage and maps into wayfinding systems. It includes case studies of global urban wayfinding models and assesses the incorporation of universal design principles in the "Signage and Wayfinding Systems Design 2" course, proposing improvements to align the curriculum with the needs of visually impaired individuals.