AuDHD Accessibility in Museums: A Sensory Guide for LeMay - America's Car Museum

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to provide a sensory guide for visitors with Autism and Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at LeMay - America's Car Museum. Many AuDHD people have sensory processing issues, which can make museums overwhelming spaces. Museums often lack materials that can aid in making them more inclusive and accessible to this demographic. The creation of this guide included surveying AuDHD visitors and asking them to rate the intensity of light, sound, smell, and touchable objects in each gallery from low to high. A second small group survey then tested the usability and overall design of the guide. This guide aims to support AuDHD museum visitors by providing a sensory map of each floor that will aid visitors in navigating the space according to their individual sensory processing needs. Implementing this guide can also engage museum staff in further discussions and actions to accommodate AuDHD visitors and provide a more equitable experience for this demographic.