"Because we are no longer ashamed of our disabilities, we are proud": Advocating and Reclaiming Next-Gen Accessibility Symbols
2026-04-09 • Human-Computer Interaction
Human-Computer Interaction
AI summaryⓘ
The authors studied how symbols that show accessibility needs can work with new technologies to help people share their disabilities more easily. They talked to people and looked at how these symbols are used in real life and online, finding that making these symbols customizable and tied to devices like phones or wearables is helpful. Their research shows that when users can control how and when their disability is shown, it reduces confusion and makes disclosure more comfortable. They suggest thinking of these symbols as part of a bigger system that depends on the symbol, the device it’s on, and the situation. This approach can create better support for accessibility in many different places.
Accessibility symbolsDisability disclosureWearable devicesUser controlContext sensitivityMobile interfacesAssistive technologySymbol interpretationDesign researchInclusive design
Authors
Karen Joy, Chris Dodge, Harsh Chavda, Alyssa Sheehan
Abstract
Our study investigates the relationship between accessibility symbols and emerging technologies in supporting disability disclosure. We conducted twenty three remote design creation sessions with semi structured interviews to examine participants awareness of existing symbols, how they use symbols across online and offline contexts, and barriers to adoption and interpretation. Through participant sketching and future oriented storyboard probes, participants proposed ways to integrate symbols into wearable devices, mobile interfaces, and portable tools, emphasizing customizable and context sensitive disclosure. Our findings suggest symbols are most effective when paired with technologies that provide user control over visibility and optional pathways for explanation, helping reduce misinterpretation while supporting agency in disclosure moments. By reimagining symbol based assistance as part of a broader disclosure system where meaning depends on the symbol, its carrier, and context, this work informs more inclusive accessibility supports across diverse settings.