Inclusive Medical Design and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotype in Tissue Engineered Blood Vessels

The bumpers on wheelchairs are designed to protect areas that are likely to encounter obstacles, such as door corners and sidewalk edges. These bumpers can be fully replaced and are available in various colors. For wheelchair users, their wheelchair serves as an extension of their identity, much like a favorite pair of shoes. Individuals often invest time and effort in ensuring that their shoes reflect their personality. However, wheelchairs frequently do not reflect the individuality of their users, despite being utilized constantly.

When considering wheelchair design, it is essential to examine who is making these design choices and the motivations behind them. Many designs stem from assumptions made by individuals who do not use wheelchairs, often based on a desire to conform to a perceived notion of "normalcy." This perspective can lead to viewing disability through a lens of deficiency rather than embracing the unique needs and identities of users.