Making WordPress Sites Accessible: Challenges and Solutions

While WordPress is open-source, making WordPress sites accessible happens within an existing system rather than from code written from scratch. This matters. It means working with pre-built components like plugins and themes, where you can't always fully control their behavior.

Because of this, our main challenge isn't just identifying accessibility issues—it's understanding how to address them within the platform's constraints.

Working with Existing Components, Not Custom Code

WordPress relies on pre-built components, so you can't always modify their code directly. When a component isn't accessible, you can't always fix it straight away.

Even when you make a change, you have to consider that a future plugin update could wipe it out. So not every workaround is stable long-term.

Here's the bigger picture: sometimes you get a request to modify a component in a certain way, but realistically there's no stable way to implement it within the plugin itself. In these cases, even if you find a quick fix, you still need to verify it holds up over time.

If it depends on the plugin's internal code, it will likely break with an update. That's why we need creative solutions.

Working Above the System, Not Inside the Plugin

Solutions, you ask? Here are some:

When you can't modify code, the answer is to work above the system—making adjustments after the page loads, without touching the plugin's source code.

You can use JavaScript to reshape the page structure and CSS to change the display. This way, you make accessibility improvements without risking them being lost in updates.

That said, it's not always right to try fixing an existing component. Sometimes it's better to change how it's displayed instead.

For example, an image slider can be difficult for some users to navigate. Instead of trying to change its behavior, you can display the content in a continuous stream, with all elements stacked one below the other.

Ongoing Accessibility Maintenance

Web accessibility isn't a one-time fix. Every site update or plugin upgrade can affect the adjustments you've made.

That's why it's crucial to audit your site regularly and ensure accessibility is preserved over time. Without ongoing maintenance, your fixes can break.

Testing Plugins Before Installation

We always recommend testing carefully before you build. This way, we often help site builders who want to create accessible sites from the ground up.

Choosing the right plugins early can prevent problems down the road. An inaccessible plugin will need extra workarounds and sometimes creates limitations you can't solve.

Before installing a plugin, check whether it supports accessibility and what its limitations are. You can reach out to the plugin developer for direct information.

Key Focus Areas for WordPress Accessibility

Updates Impact Accessibility

Any plugin update can change behavior and break the adjustments you've made.

Working Without Code Access

You need to account for the fact that you can't always make direct changes to components.

The Value of Early Planning

Choosing the right components from the start reduces problems later.

Accessibility in the Admin Interface Too

In some cases, you need to make WordPress's admin interface accessible for your team members. This is especially relevant for internal components.

At the same time, it's important to ensure front-end components—like menus or shopping carts—meet accessibility standards.

Need Help Making Your WordPress Site Accessible?

WordPress accessibility requires systematic work, a solid understanding of the platform, and ongoing maintenance. Working with a professional can help you navigate these constraints.

If you want to make your WordPress site accessible and have more questions, User Accessibility is here to help.