How Can Public Spaces Become More Inclusive for Neurodivergent People?

Schools, libraries, museums, healthcare centers, and other public spaces should be accessible and welcoming to everyone—regardless of how they perceive, process, or respond to sensory input and social environments. Neurodiversity includes autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and other neurological variations that often require adjustments in the physical and social environment.

What Can Be Done?

Create Sensory-Friendly Rest Areas

One of the most effective solutions is to provide calm spaces or specialized furniture where individuals can decompress from sensory overload. These environments allow people to return to their activities feeling grounded and emotionally regulated.

Adjust Lighting and Sound

Noise, harsh lighting, and flashing screens can be overwhelming. Offering softer lighting, sound insulation, or options to control the sensory environment greatly improves comfort and accessibility.

Use Clear and Visual Information

Simple signage, maps, and step-by-step visual guides are not only helpful—they’re essential. Predictability and clarity help neurodivergent individuals feel safer and more in control in unfamiliar settings.

Train Staff on Neurodiversity Awareness

Empathy is the foundation of inclusion. Staff who understand how to recognize signs of sensory distress or how to assist a neurodivergent visitor play a key role in creating trust and belonging.

Neurocass is one of the tools supporting more inclusive public spaces.

Learn more about our sensory relaxation system at www.neurocass.com

Sensory armchair "Neurocass"

Learn more about Neurocass