Yelp is launching new, searchable accessibility features to help people with disabilities connect with businesses that best meet their needs and preferences.
According to Yelp, searches for “wheelchair accessible” rose an average of 40% from 2020 to 2023. And while “wheelchair accessible” is among the most popular attributes on Yelp, the company recognizes that accessibility needs vary.
Therefore, Yelp teamed up with disability inclusion leaders Disability:IN, the American Association of People with Disabilities, Open to All and The Arc to add eight new business attributes addressing specific accessibility needs and providing users with reliable information before visiting a business.
In addition to the existing wheelchair-accessible attribute, now consumers will also be able to easily search and identify businesses that provide the following mobility, hearing and vision accommodations:
Accessible parking near entrance
ADA-compliant main entrance
ADA-compliant restroom
No steps or stairs
American Sign Language proficient
Closed-captioning on TVs
Braille menus available
QR code menus available
Business owners can add these attributes to their Yelp page for free. Yelp will also survey consumers about these attributes through the “Update the Community” questions on Yelp’s business page.
“Far too often people with disabilities do not have access to information to find businesses and services that are accessible to them,” says Calla Devlin, managing director of Open to All. “Yelp’s new suite of attributes is an invaluable tool for customers. We’re thrilled to partner again with Yelp to create a world where businesses truly are open to all.”
To help support inclusive business practices, Yelp has also created a new Accessibility Resource Hub for business owners. The hub includes tools and information on implementing inclusive practices for consumers with disabilities, tips for communicating those efforts, and firsthand accounts from businesses committed to accessibility.
Support New Mobility
Wait! Before you wander off to other parts of the internet, please consider supporting New Mobility. For more than three decades, New Mobility has published groundbreaking content for active wheelchair users. We share practical advice from wheelchair users across the country, review life-changing technology and demand equity in healthcare, travel and all facets of life. But none of this is cheap, easy or profitable. Your support helps us give wheelchair users the resources to build a fulfilling life.
donate today