Beyond Mobility: How Accessibility Impacts the Limb Loss Community

When we think about accessibility, mobility is often the first thing that comes to mind. But for individuals with limb loss, accessibility extends far beyond just getting from point A to point B. From navigating public spaces and using assistive technology to accessing inclusive workplaces and digital platforms, true accessibility means removing barriers in every aspect of daily life. For the limb loss community, accessibility is not just about physical mobility—it’s about independence, dignity, and equal opportunity. In this blog, we’ll explore the many ways accessibility impacts those with limb loss and why businesses, policymakers, and communities must prioritize accessible, inclusive, universal design to ensure everyone can participate fully in society.

Understanding Limb Loss:

Limb loss, or amputation, refers to the removal of a limb due to various causes, including medical conditions, trauma, or congenital factors. 

A PERSONAL JOURNEY

The founder of Impactability, Robert Jeffrey, had a below the knee amputation in 2018 due to complications from diabetes. His journey to become mobile again was not an easy one. He currently has a prosthetic leg and is able to walk, drive, and work fairly independently. At home, he usually takes the prosthetic limb off and navigates with a wheelchair. 

Here’s an overview of limb loss statistics in Canada and the United States:

Canada:

• Between 2006 and 2009, 5,342 patients underwent lower-extremity amputations in 207 Canadian hospitals.
• There are approximately 227,000 in Canada with a limb or extremity amputation.
• The mean age of these patients was 67 years, with 68% being men.
• Amputations were most frequently indicated after admission for diabetic complications (81%), cardiovascular disease (6%), or cancer (3%).
  

United States:

• Approximately 185,000 amputations occur annually.
• As of 2021, about 2.1 million people are living with limb loss, with projections estimating this number will rise to 3.6 million by 2050. 

Distribution by Limb Type:

• Lower Limb Amputations: Account for approximately 65% of all amputations. 
  • Toe Amputations: 33.2%
  • Below-the-Knee (Transtibial) Amputations: 28.2%
  • Above-the-Knee (Transfemoral) Amputations: 26.1%
  • Foot Amputations: 10.6% 
• Upper Limb Amputations: Comprise about 35% of all amputations. 
  • Finger Amputations: Most common, occurring at a rate of 2.8 per 100,000 individuals.
  • Hand Amputations: 0.46 per 100,000 individuals.
  • Upper Arm Amputations: 0.38 per 100,000 individuals. 

These statistics highlight the prevalence of limb loss and underscore the importance of creating accessible environments that cater to the diverse needs of this community. Accessibility is not solely about physical accommodations but also involves inclusive policies, technologies, and societal attitudes that enable individuals with limb loss to lead full and independent lives.

How Accessibility Impacts Individuals with Limb Loss

For individuals with limb loss, accessibility is about more than just physical accommodations—it influences their independence, social interactions, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life. Below are some key areas where accessibility plays a crucial role.

1. The Built Environment: Navigating Public Spaces

Many public spaces are still designed with able-bodied individuals in mind, making it difficult for those with prosthetic limbs, mobility aids, or wheelchairs to move freely. Challenges include:

• Uneven sidewalks, high curbs, and steps that create barriers for individuals using prosthetics.
• Lack of ramps and automatic doors in businesses, government buildings, and public facilities.
• Inaccessible washrooms without grab bars, wide stalls, or sufficient maneuvering space.

Simple modifications like wider doorways, ramps, accessible seating areas, and properly placed handrails can dramatically improve mobility for individuals with limb loss.

2. Accessible Transportation

Public transportation is a major accessibility concern, as individuals with lower limb amputations may require additional support when boarding buses, trains, or subways. Common challenges include:

• Inadequate space for prosthetic users or wheelchairs in public transit.
• Lack of accessible taxis for individuals needing additional mobility accommodations.
• Inconsistent infrastructure, such as bus stops without curb cuts or uneven boarding platforms.

Investing in accessible transit solutions—such as low-floor buses, priority seating, and ride-hailing services with accessibility options—ensures that individuals with limb loss can travel independently.

3. Workplace Accessibility and Employment Inclusion

Employment opportunities are often limited for individuals with limb loss due to accessibility barriers in workplaces. These can include:

• Lack of adaptive workstations or ergonomic seating for individuals with upper limb amputations.
• Job descriptions that unintentionally exclude amputees, even when accommodations are possible.
• Bias and misconceptions about the capabilities of employees with limb loss.

Employers can create inclusion by:

• Providing adjustable desks, voice-activated technology, and adaptive equipment.
• Offering flexible work arrangements for those who may require additional rest periods.
• Educating staff on disability awareness and inclusion.

4. Digital Accessibility and Technology

With the increasing reliance on digital tools, web and app accessibility is essential. Many individuals with limb loss rely on adaptive technology, such as:

• Speech-to-text software for those with upper limb amputations.
• Keyboard shortcuts and assistive input devices for ease of navigation.
• Accessible website design with clear navigation, contrast settings, and voice control options.

Businesses must ensure that websites, applications, and digital services comply with accessibility standards so that individuals with limb loss can engage with digital content easily.

Why Accessibility Matters: The Bigger Picture

Creating accessible environments benefits everyone—not just individuals with limb loss. Universal design principles help:

• Parents pushing strollers.
• Seniors with mobility challenges.
• People recovering from injuries. 
• Anyone navigating public spaces with temporary mobility limitations.

When businesses, municipalities, and communities prioritize accessibility, they create spaces where everyone can participate fully.

Taking Action: How You Can Support Accessibility

If you’re a business owner, policymaker, or community leader, there are many ways to support accessibility for individuals with limb loss:
✅ Conduct accessibility audits of physical and digital spaces.
✅ Install automatic doors, ramps, and wider pathways.
✅ Provide accessible hiring practices and accommodations in the workplace.
✅ Advocate for accessible public transportation and urban planning initiatives.
✅ Support policies that promote inclusive recreational activities, like sledge hockey or adaptive sports.

Final Thoughts – Beyond Mobility: How Accessibility Impacts the Limb Loss Community

Limb Loss Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate, advocate, and take action to create a more inclusive society. Accessibility is not just about compliance—it’s about ensuring that individuals with limb loss can live full, independent, and barrier-free lives.

By removing physical, social, and digital obstacles, we can work toward a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has equal access to opportunities, mobility, and independence.

Want to Make a Difference?

If you’re interested in assessing and improving accessibility in your business or organization, consider booking a free accessibility assessment with Impactability today! Let’s work together to create a more inclusive world.

You can also connect with the Amputee Coalition organization to learn more about limb loss.