The silent path: exploring the underutilization oftactile paving by persons with visual impairmentin China
发布日期：2026-04-07
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ABSTRACT：China has built the world's longest tactile paving network,yet its use by persons with visual impairment remains lim-ited. This study examines the reasons for this low level ofutilization with qualitative methods, including field observa-tions and in-depth interviews, and identifies four intercon-nected challenges. Socially, tactile paving is frequentlyoccupied by vehicles, vendors, and public facilities, reflectingeveryday neglect and implicit discrimination in urban space.Institutionally, weak legal enforceability, campaign-style con-struction, and insufficient maintenance undermine usability,while the absence of representative participation discon-nects design from actual needs. At the familial level, over-protection and associative stigma restrict opportunities forindependent travel. Psychosocially, prolonged exposure tounsafe environments and social exclusion fosters fear andreluctance, and contributes to the internalization of ableistbeliefs. These findings call for stronger institutional regula-tion and, crucially, meaningful participation of persons withvisual impairment in accessibility planning and governance.
作者：Renxing Chen, Zhimin Zhang and Mengyao Li
来源：DISABILITY & SOCIETY，27 February2026
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