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Families Advocate for Adult Changing Places in Public Spaces

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -for-adult-changing-places-in-public-spaces.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 15:20 GMT by KCCI Des Moines
      Locales: Iowa, UNITED STATES

DES MOINES, IA - February 1st, 2026 - What many take for granted - a simple restroom break while traveling - remains a significant hurdle for families with adult children and loved ones living with disabilities. A growing movement is gaining momentum across the nation, advocating for the installation of adult changing places, specifically adult-sized changing tables, in public spaces. These facilities aren't about convenience; they're about fundamental dignity, health, and the ability for families to participate fully in society.

For families like the Rices of Johnston, Iowa, the lack of accessible changing facilities transforms travel from a joyous occasion into a logistical nightmare riddled with anxiety and indignity. "It's exhausting, both physically and emotionally," explains Jessica Rice, a tireless advocate for adult changing places. "You're constantly planning around restroom breaks, assessing the cleanliness of potential changing areas, and worrying about the safety and comfort of your loved one."

Currently, many families are forced to change adult children with disabilities on unsanitary and undignified surfaces - floors of public restrooms, luggage racks, or even the trunks of cars. This isn't a hypothetical problem; it's a daily reality for thousands of families. The situation poses significant health risks and robs individuals of their dignity.

"We had to change our son on the floor of a restaurant once," Rice recounts, her voice filled with emotion. "It was humiliating for him, stressful for us, and frankly, unacceptable. No one should be subjected to that."

Adult changing places differ from standard baby changing tables in crucial ways. They are larger, more robust, and equipped with privacy screens. Critically, they often include a height-adjustable bench, allowing caregivers to safely and comfortably change an adult without straining themselves or compromising the individual's wellbeing. These facilities address the needs of individuals with a wide range of disabilities, including mobility impairments, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and other conditions requiring assistance with personal care.

The Rices aren't alone in their advocacy. A national network of families and disability rights organizations are working to raise awareness and push for legislative changes requiring adult changing places in public buildings, airports, and other travel hubs. Organizations like Changing for Change ( [ https://changingforchange.org/ ] ) are spearheading the effort, providing resources, and lobbying policymakers.

Kansas City International Airport is being hailed as a leader in this movement, having installed six adult changing tables and committed to adding more. Joe McBride, an airport spokesperson, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity. "We want to make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable when they travel. Providing adult changing places isn't just the right thing to do; it's essential for creating a truly accessible and inclusive airport experience."

The impact extends far beyond airports. Advocates are campaigning for the inclusion of adult changing places in shopping malls, movie theaters, stadiums, theme parks, and other public venues. A recent study by the National Disability Rights Network found that the lack of accessible changing facilities is a major deterrent to travel and participation in community life for adults with disabilities. The study highlighted the economic impact, noting that families are less likely to spend money in locations that don't cater to their needs.

While progress is being made, advocates emphasize that much work remains. Current building codes often lack specific requirements for adult changing places, and funding for installation is limited. The cost of installing these facilities is estimated to be between $2,000 and $5,000, a relatively modest investment considering the profound impact it can have on the lives of individuals and families.

Jessica Rice remains optimistic, but firm. "It's not just about convenience, it's about basic human dignity. It's about allowing people with disabilities to live full and meaningful lives, to travel, to explore, and to create memories with their loved ones." The movement for adult changing places is a testament to the power of advocacy and the growing recognition that accessibility is not a privilege, but a right.