National Association of Boards of Long Term Care Administrator (NAB) CORE Practice Exam

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), what must a healthcare organization provide for care recipients using walkers?

1. A space in the dining room for wheelchairs and walkers

2. The option to formulate its own policy regarding the use of walkers

3. Discipline for employees who violate care recipient rights

4. A caregiver to escort the care recipient to the dining room

The correct answer is: A space in the dining room for wheelchairs and walkers

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) mandates that public spaces and services, including healthcare organizations, make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This includes providing appropriate space for mobility aids such as walkers and wheelchairs to ensure that these individuals can navigate the facility safely and comfortably. By ensuring that there is designated space in the dining room for walkers, the healthcare organization is fulfilling its obligation under the ADA to facilitate access and mobility for care recipients who rely on these devices. This measure helps eliminate barriers that could impede the dignity and independence of individuals using walkers, promoting an inclusive environment. The other options fail to address the fundamental requirement of the ADA for physical accommodations. Formulating a policy about walkers does not inherently meet the accessibility needs; imposing discipline on employees does not create a supportive environment; and providing a caregiver for escorting may not be necessary if adequate space and accessibility arrangements are in place. The focus should be on ensuring that individuals can navigate the space independently and safely.