What's happening with remote work today?
The workplace landscape is shifting again. While remote work became common during recent years, many companies are now asking employees to return to the office. Some offer hybrid options with a few days at home and some days at the workplace. Others require full-time on-site attendance. This change affects everyone, and individuals with disabilities may face unique challenges as they prepare for this transition. While adjusting to in-person work requires planning, returning to the workplace can also offer valuable opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and social connection.
Why are companies moving away from remote work?
Many businesses want employees back in the workplace for various reasons. They believe in-person collaboration works better. Some want to maintain company culture. Others want better supervision of their teams. While this trend is happening, it's important to know that individuals with disabilities have options during this transition.
What challenges might individuals with disabilities face returning to the workplace?
The return to the workplace may bring back barriers that remote work helped to remove:
- Transportation difficulties - Getting to work every day can be challenging for people with mobility issues
- Accessibility concerns - Buildings may not be fully accessible or comfortable
- Sensory challenges - Open shared spaces can be overwhelming with noise, lights, and crowds
- Health management - Managing medications, appointments, and self-care can become harder
- Assistive technology setup - Your home office setup may not transfer easily to a shared workspace
The ADS Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) is here to help: Fill out our contact form to get started and take the first step toward a successful return to office experience.
How can you prepare for hybrid or full-time in-person work?
Step 1: Assess your needs
Think about what accommodations helped you succeed at home. Which ones will you need in a workplace setting? Make a list of your specific requirements for workspace, technology, and other needs. Also consider what professional goals you have - such as building relationships with colleagues, accessing mentorship opportunities, or participating more actively in team projects.
Step 2: Research your workplace
Learn about the workplace layout and accessibility features. Ask about parking, elevators, restrooms, and workspace options you may need. The more you know ahead of time, the better you can prepare. This is also a good time to learn about workplace culture, team meeting schedules, and opportunities for professional development that you can participate in once you return.
Step 3: Plan your accommodations
Contact your employer early to discuss reasonable accommodations. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, employers may provide reasonable accommodations that help you do your job effectively.
What accommodations can you request?
When returning to the workplace, you might request accommodations such as:
- Workspace modifications - Adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, better lighting, or quieter areas
- Technology accommodations - Screen readers, voice recognition software, or specialized keyboards
- Schedule flexibility - Modified hours, break schedules, or work-from-home days\
- Transportation support - Accessible parking spots or flexible arrival times
- Environmental changes - Noise reduction, temperature control, or seating arrangements
Step 4: Test your assistive technology
- Make sure your assistive technology will work in your new environment. Some tools that work perfectly at home may need adjustments for a shared workspace.
Many assistive technology tools can work well in traditional offices with proper planning:
Personal Technology
- Portable devices like tablets with communication apps
- Noise-canceling headphones for focus
- Personal ergonomic accessories
Workplace Technology
- Software that works on company computers
- Adjustable monitors and keyboard setups
- Voice recognition programs for document creation
The Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation can help you identify which assistive technology options work best in office environments and may help your employer provide workplace accommodations.
How do you advocate for accessibility in traditional workplaces?
When discussing accommodations with your employer:
- Focus on how accommodations help you perform your job functions
- Provide specific examples of what you need
- Suggest solutions rather than just identifying problems
- Know that reasonable accommodations are often required by law
- Provide your requests in writing and document any responses
What if hybrid work is an option?
Hybrid work arrangements might offer the best of both worlds. You could work from home on days when you need more control over your environment and come to the office for meetings or collaborative work. This option may help reduce some barriers while still meeting your employer's needs and allowing you to benefit from in-person collaboration and workplace relationships.
Many individuals find that hybrid arrangements let them participate in important team meetings, build professional relationships, and access workplace resources while maintaining the flexibility they need to manage their disability effectively.
Ready to navigate the return to office successfully?
The workplace may be changing, but your right to reasonable accommodations remains the same. Whether you're facing a full return to the workplace or exploring hybrid options, remember that returning to in-person work can offer valuable opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and meaningful workplace relationships alongside the accommodations you need to succeed.
The Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation is here to help. Our team can guide you through accommodation planning, assistive technology options, and advocacy strategies for traditional workplace settings.
Fill out our contact form to get started and take the first step toward a successful return to office experience.
Remember: Returning to the office doesn't mean giving up the accommodations that helps you succeed.