Today I want to talk about accessibility 
.
I haven’t written about this topic before, because there are already many wonderful posts about it here on Connect. But lately, I’ve been reflecting a lot. Not just on what accessibility means in theory, but on how it plays out in real life and what we could do as Local Guides. So I’d like to share some thoughts 
.
I’ve read a lot about accessibility and inclusion, and I truly try to practice it as much as I can in my everyday life. Still, there are moments when I realize it’s not enough, that I’ve missed something, or that I could have done more. Beyond good intentions, real inclusion is an ongoing effort. A daily choice.
Often, when we talk about accessibility, we (rightfully) focus on things like ramps, elevators, and wheelchair access. And that’s important. But there are so many others quietly facing challenges every day. Challenges that are less visible, but just as real.
I’m talking about:
People with neurodivergent minds
People with “small” or invisible difficulties
Seniors
Parents or caregivers trying to move around with babies
These groups often fall through the cracks. Not because we don’t care, but because we simply don’t notice. And we can do better.
We talk a lot about accessibility, and that’s good. It’s necessary. But it’s also time to expand that conversation. Because inclusion is not just about uploading a photo of a ramp or tagging an accessible bathroom.
Accessibility isn’t only about infrastructure. It’s about awareness. It’s about empathy. It’s about how we look at others, how we listen, how we show up. 
Let me give you an example… I’m nearsighted 
, and I only use glasses to read. So walking 
while reading directions on my phone 
is a real challenge. I’m constantly putting my glasses on and taking them off. It can make me dizzy and frustrated. But Google Maps helps with that. The voice guidance feature 
allows me to navigate without needing to read while walking. For me, that’s not a nice-to-have — it’s essential. That voice gives me independence, letting me walk freely and safely.
And yet, there have been times when people around me clearly looked annoyed just because they heard the audio coming from my phone. As if the small noise of directions was somehow more inconvenient than the help it gives me. And honestly, that’s not fair. Because what might seem like “just a voice” to others is what helps me stay safe and independent.
You may wonder what this story has to do with accessibility.
Well… how many simple tools like this are out there, quietly empowering someone to stay independent? How many people could we support better, just by paying closer attention?
Sometimes I see social media posts promoting accessibility, yet the text is very tiny. Barely readable even for people without visual challenges. Or people who advocate for wheelchair spaces but, in real life, won’t move aside, offer help, or show patience when an elderly person needs more time.
We’ve all been there, and that’s okay. Learning about accessibility is a journey, not a destination. We think that knowing about accessibility or inclusion is enough. That marking a place on the map means we’ve done our part. But true inclusion lives in everyday moments. It shows up when we think about those who may need to see more clearly, hear better, move more freely or simply need us to be a little more patient.
It shows up when we choose empathy before someone has to explain what they’re going through. Because not everything is visible. Because not everyone can or wants to ask for help.
As Local Guides, we have a unique opportunity. Every time we share a photo, leave a review, or update a place on Google Maps, we help build a more accessible and inclusive world. Of course, tagging ramps and accessible restrooms are important contributions, but there is a lot more we can do — and those actions could make all the difference.
So, what can we do then?
Let me share a list of things we can also check while contributing to Google Maps. Of course, this list is not exhaustive. Please feel free to add your own tips for inclusive contributions in the comments!
Upload clear, well-lit photos that older adults or low-vision users can interpret more easily.
Write straightforward, easy-to-understand reviews, using bullets or other visual aids to make your text clearer. Avoid jargon or confusing phrases that could be challenging for people with dyslexia or cognitive differences.
Mention if a place has long staircases that could be problematic for older adults or people without the necessary strength to climb them.
Mention if floors are slippery, as this could be a problem for people with poor stability or low vision.
Include a note if menus have tiny text, which could be difficult for people with visual impairments.
Comment on noise levels — overly loud places may not be comfortable for people who are sensitive to sound.
Point out whether signage is clear and visible, especially for people with reading difficulties.
Gently mention if the staff is helpful, as this is valuable information for people who may need assistance.
Include details about the comfort of waiting areas, which is crucial for people who can’t stand for long periods.
Confirm accurate opening hours, especially helpful for seniors or people traveling from afar.
Highlight if an elevator is too small to accommodate a stroller or wheelchair.
Indicate if there are unmarked steps, or if cobbled sidewalks could be tricky for someone using a cane, wheelchair, or pushing a baby.
Recommend voice-guided navigation, which is helpful not only for people with low vision but also for those, like me, who can’t keep checking their phone while walking.
All of this is also accessibility. And often, it’s what makes the real difference.
Next time you edit a place on Google Maps, ask yourself: What might someone need if they can’t see, hear, process, or move the way I do? Am I making this information more useful, clearer, more inclusive?
Because every detail we add doesn’t just improve a map. It improves someone’s experience.
And that truly makes a difference.
Inclusion begins when we stop waiting and start acting.
Do you know other ways of contributing thiking on this groups? Please share it in the comments!
Hugs from Buenos Aires!
Ceci
