5 Everyday Tools You Didn’t Know Started with Accessibility

Jul 2, 2026 – DASCH Inc.

Many things we now see as ordinary convenience were first created in an effort to remove barriers and make the world more accessible to people with disabilities. That is universal design at work. When we remove barriers for one group, we often make life easier for everyone.

As we recognize Disability Pride Month this July, it’s an opportunity to celebrate these innovations while reflecting on the role we can all play in creating a more accessible society!

1. Audiobooks

Audiobooks began in the 1930s as “talking books” for people who are blind or have low vision. Today, this tool is a billion-dollar industry with people listening to books while commuting, cooking, exercising or learning in a way that works better for them.

Concrete curb cut on the corner of a road.

2. Curb Cuts

While the first curb cut was installed in 1945 in the United States, it wasn’t until the 70s when disability activists in Berkeley, California, started pouring cement themselves to create ramps that the movement started.

Now, curb cuts are standard in cities around the world. Originally implemented to help people who use wheelchairs move safely from sidewalk to street, they now also help parents with strollers, travellers with luggage, delivery workers, cyclists and many others.

Did you know? This became known as the “curb-cut effect,” where laws and designs created for one specific group end up benefiting society as a whole.

3. Pilates Reformer

The Pilates reformer has roots in rehabilitation. Joseph Pilates was born with many illnesses that affected his physical health. This led him to dedicate his life to improving his strength and wellness.

During World War I, while imprisoned, he started using springs attached to hospital beds so people could build strength while lying down. Today, reformers are common in Pilates studios and are used by people with many different fitness goals.

Phone with a silent icon and lines on either side communicating a vibration.

4. Vibration Alerts

Vibration alerts were created to support Deaf and hard-of-hearing people by turning sound into touch. Today, we feel them in phones, smartwatches, game controllers, and other devices.

They help us notice reminders, calls and messages without needing sound and ensure we don’t interrupt movies, plays, ceremonies or anything else requiring silence!

TV screen with Toy Story the movie playing with closed captions.

5. Closed Captioning

Closed captioning was developed for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Now captions help people watch videos in noisy places, follow unfamiliar accents, learn to read or enjoy a show over the sound of a crunchy snack!

Tools of Inclusion

Accessibility is not only about meeting a need. It can spark ideas that improve daily life for everyone. At DASCH, we believe inclusion should be built into how we design spaces, share information and support people. When accessibility comes first, more people can take part with dignity, choice and belonging.