This letter appeared in the Toronto Star on Jan. 15, 2025:
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is NOT an “aspirational” recommendation. It is the LAW of Ontario.
However, the Ontario government refuses to enforce this law. If the original plan to enforce accessibility in housing had been followed, the Ontario Building Code would now mandate that all new housing be universal design (accessible for people of every age and ability). The benefits of having accessible housing will actually save millions of dollars for government through:
• Fewer falls, ambulance calls, ER visits and hospitalizations.
• Reduced costs for long-term care facilities, in-home household and PSW support help, caregiver burnout.
• Protection from catastrophes such as pandemics in long-term care homes.
• Improved mental and physical health, increased employment of people with disabilities and eliminating the need for costly future renovations.
Kate Chung, co-founder, Accessible Housing Network
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