Spatial orientation is being able to maintain our body posture or position in relation to the environment around us both when we are moving or still. Information obtained through visual means is the most important of the senses when keeping spatially oriented. Using our senses to judge distance, speed and depth of objects all helps in determining our position in relation to our surrounding environment.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
A person who has difficulty with spatial orientation may have trouble moving around the workplace, often bumping into things or having trouble finding their way. They may have difficulty reading and interpreting a road map or navigating in unfamiliar environments.
As spatial orientation is often determined through visual information, for individuals with visual impairments, consideration needs to be given to ways to facilitate alternative methods to orient to place. When a person with spatial orientation difficulties commences work in an unfamiliar location or workplace, walk through with the individual and explain verbally the layout of the environment pointing out or physically demonstrating particular landmarks. If a greater amount of assistance is required, consider the use of mobility and orientation training which can help people to recognise the best way to get around:
Consider the use of:
Other supports for spatial orientation can include safety fences or guides as well as:
References
Christiansen, C. & Baum, C. 1991, Occupational Therapy – Overcoming Human Performance Deficits, Slack Incorporated, New Jersey.
Macular Degeneration Foundation 2009, Orientation and mobility training, Macular Degeneration Foundation Limited, Sydney, viewed 14 May 2010, http://www.mdfoundation.com.au/orientationtraining.aspx.
Vision Australia 2009, Accessible Design for Public Buildings, Vision Australia, Enfield viewed 14 May 2010, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=721.
Vision Australia 2009, Adding contrast to the edges of steps, Vision Australia, Enfield, viewed 14 May 2010, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=2063.