39 msfocusmagazine.org For example, in Broward County, Fla., the ADA eligibility certification for individuals interested in qualifying for paratransit includes a functional assessment to determine when, and the circumstances under which, an individual can use the fixed-route buses or paratransit service. This process includes completion of an application, as well as an evaluation to determine an individual’s functional needs or capabilities. As part of the assessment, the individual participates in a physical evaluation involving a simulated bus travel experience that includes boarding a bus, maneuvering a curb and curb cut, and crossing the street. The assessment comprises both a physical and cognitive evaluation of the individual’s functional capabilities. Physically, the individual will be watched forbalance,strength,coordination, range of motion, vision, and respiration.To test an individual’s cognitive functional abilities, the individual may have to take tests designed to measure memory, attention span, and the ability to find one’s bus route. In considering eligibility, an individual’s age, inconvenience, discomfort, inability to drive, financial status, or lack of fixed-route service within three-fourths of a mile of the nearest fixed-route bus stop may considered in determining an individual’s eligibility for paratransit. In addition, eligibility criteria may also be limited to certain groups of individuals, such as seniors or individuals receiving social services. After the application process is completed, anindividualshouldreceivewrittennotification of their eligibility forADA paratransit services and their category of eligibility as determined by the local authority. If an individual is not found eligible to use paratransit, then the individual may have alternatives to assist them with travel. “Travel training” is a free alternative that may be available to teach individuals how to use the fixed-route buses. As another alternative, individuals could request an eligibility determination to simply use paratransit for specific destinations such as medical appointments. Finally, the fixed- route bus system should be designed with route announce- ments, lifts, ramps, priority seating, easy-to-read signs, and otheraccessible accommodations to make the trip experience manageable for people with all types of disabilities. Overall, the ADA paratransit service system offers valuable benefits to the lives of people with disabilities. Once found eligible, riders typically can use paratransit services in other places they visit. Many riders find it a premier source for linking them to places, people, and things to do in their neighborhood and around the community. Finally, while the ADA paratransit service system is often the subject of criticism, paratransit services still remains a key component for full integration for individuals with disabilities. The ADA paratransit service system offers valuable benefits to the lives of people with disabilities.