[End-of-Life Journal] Strolling through Umekita Park with my mother-in-law: A 'trip away from home after 5 years' protected by barrier-free access

Introduction

It looks like the weather will be unfortunately gloomy throughout this year's Golden Week.

On May 1st, the only sunny day in the long-term forecast,

we went on a special outing.

"I'd like to try going to Umekita Park."

To fulfill my mother-in-law's wish,

my spouse and I went to pick her up, and we enjoyed a stroll through the park in early summer.

I have introduced "Umekita Park" on this blog several times before, but

this time, the stroll was from a different perspective.

"I want to try riding the train": Wanting to respond to those words

My mother-in-law has undergone three major surgeries since injuring her lumbar spine five years ago.

Currently, she is in a state where she can barely walk using a walking aid (silver car).

At first, I considered traveling by taxi so as not to overexert her, but

the words that came back from my mother-in-law were, "I'd like to try riding the train for the first time in a while."

It takes a little extra effort, but respecting her enthusiasm,

we decided to take on the challenge of traveling by public transportation.

1. Subway: Safety measures have evolved

First, we headed from the nearest station to the subway.

I was once again struck by how wonderful the barrier-free improvements at the station are.

• Fully equipped elevators: Even with a walker, we could get to the platform smoothly.

• Platform screen doors (movable platform fences): There is no fear of falling, so we can wait for the train with peace of mind.

• Elimination of gaps and steps between the train and platform: For the small wheels of a walker, a gap or step of a few centimeters is a major barrier. Having this area flat significantly reduced the burden of assistance.

2. JR: Smooth access via the new route

The transfer from the subway to the JR line was completed entirely by elevator.

Since it is difficult to use a walker in places that only have escalators,

this 'elevator connection' is truly a lifeline.

We passed through the 'Umekita Underground Gate,' the new entrance to JR Osaka Station,

and headed to our destination, Umekita Park. As it is a state-of-the-art station building,

we felt almost no stress during our travel.

A trip away from home after 5 years, surrounded by flowers in full bloom

Umekita Park was bustling with many people.

The colorful seasonal flowers were in full bloom, and the spring weather was truly refreshing.

For my mother-in-law, who usually only walks a little around the neighborhood,

this seemed like a different world.

Seeing her smile as she said, 'I haven't been this far in 5 years,' made me happy.

I felt deeply moved, knowing that bringing her here was truly the right decision.

Afterword: Barrier-free access is kindness toward 'my future self'

I had known the term 'barrier-free' for a long time,

but when I was younger, it felt like someone else's concern.

However, walking side-by-side with my mother-in-law, who has difficulty walking,

I realized its true importance.

I have also started feeling pain in my knees recently.

The 'minor steps' that one doesn't even notice when healthy,

become major barriers when one's mobility is limited, narrowing one's range of movement.

The recently developed 'Umekita' area

was designed from the start with the premise of 'having no steps'.

A society where everyone can freely go wherever they like.

It was a day that left me deeply grateful for the wonder of that, and for the people who designed, planned, and built it.

📰 Recommended note creators!