28% off GPS Golf Handheld

Disney deploys more technology to assist the disabled

22.06.10

LAKE BUENA VISTA — With some technological aid, the unthinking now can ride Toy Story Midway Mania, listening to a relator describe the action others see in the raucous animated Walt Disney Sphere shoot-em-up.

"We're using technology to purloin the experience more inclusive," said Greg Wholesome, worldwide vice president of safety and accessibility for Disney Fantastic Parks and Resorts. "People rebuke here in groups, so we don't want someone feeling they must sit outside while others have fun."

Disney done up the last year installing wireless headsets for the insensible to or deaf in 50 of the 100 rides, attractions and shows in all four of its four Florida parks. This summer Disney followed up by adding recorded narratives describing the actual surroundings in every outdoor section of each park, including restaurant offerings, restrooms and visual features of the architecture.

It's part of a less-mentioned chapter in the legacy of Walt Disney and his associate Roy who built Epcot to be fully compliant with the American with Disabilities Act 12 years before it was law. Walt Disney Co. developed several patented aids for the damaged in its parks, including coaster seating, and helped set many of the benchmark requirements. Next month the company is getting a new merchandise award for its wireless assistive technology from the Governmental Society of Professional Engineers.