Study of the free movement of individuals with visual impairments in a city center: Comparison with the free movement of sighted individuals

This study investigated the free movement of individuals with visual impairments compared to sighted individuals within an urban city center. Twelve participants with visual impairments and 10 sighted participants completed 4 non-predefined routes, using paths of their choice between fixed start and end points. GPS tracking devices recorded movement every 2 s to map each participant’s route. Participants with visual impairments navigated independently, although they could request assistance when needed. Researchers ensured participant safety by discreetly following them and intervening only in hazardous situations. Movement characteristics such as route length, directional changes, and use of roads and pedestrian streets were analyzed. The data showed that individuals with visual impairments followed significantly longer routes and used pedestrian streets more frequently than sighted participants. This suggests different navigation strategies and highlights the influence of visual impairments on urban mobility. These findings can be valuable for inclusive urban planning that considers the specific mobility patterns and challenges faced by people with visual impairments, helping to create more accessible and safer urban environments.