This is in continuation with the series of accessibility which I started from my previous article which talked about Visual Accessibility, to read that article visit ‘What is Visual Accessibility? WCAG views and it’s limitation on it.’

For new reader here’s the context of Accessibility
Accessibility means designing and creating things that are easy to use and understand for everyone, including people with disabilities(Specially abled) or limitations. It means making sure that buildings, products, and services are accessible and usable by as many people as possible, regardless of their abilities.

There are various types of Accessibility that need to be considered while Designing

• Visual ( color blindness)
• Motor/mobility ( wheelchair-user concerns)
• Auditory (hearing difficulties)
• Seizures (especially photosensitive epilepsy)
• Learning/Cognitive ( dyslexia)

Visual

Read my previous article — Visual Accessibility and WCAG Guidelines

Motor Accessibility

Motor/mobility accessibility in design refers to the practice of creating physical spaces, products, and environments that are inclusive and accessible for individuals with motor impairments or mobility limitations. It involves designing with consideration for the diverse range of abilities and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their physical limitations, can navigate and interact with the environment comfortably and independently.

Now to understand deeper we need to understand the motor disability and its type so that the accessible system can be sound.

Motor Disability

A motor disability refers to a condition that makes it difficult for a person to sense, move, or coordinate their body properly. It can be caused by different things like being born with a condition, getting sick, or experiencing physical injuries. People with motor disabilities often face similar challenges when using the internet and navigating websites. This can include difficulties in using a mouse, typing on a keyboard, or controlling their movements. To know more read the full article on Motor Disabilities

Some Common Disabilities

1. Cerebral palsy: Loss of muscle control due to brain injury, leading to muscle spasms and speech impairment.
2. Muscular dystrophy: Genetic disorder causing progressive muscle degeneration, often seen in children.
3. Multiple sclerosis: Erosion of the protective myelin layer, resulting in varied symptoms like tremors, weakness, and partial paralysis.
4. Spina bifida: Congenital condition where the spinal cord doesn’t fully close, leading to motor difficulties, paralysis, and potential language disability.
5. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): Degenerative disease causing slowness in movement, speech, and partial paralysis.
6. Arthritis: Joint pain, commonly in the elderly, which may affect computer use and prompt the need for alternative controls.
7. Parkinson’s disease: Central nervous system disorder causing muscle rigidity and tremors, necessitating complex assistive technologies for computer use.
8. Essential tremor: Nerve disorder resulting in uncontrollable tremors, impacting the use of limbs, head, and voice.

Tools for Specially abled/Disabled people

• Head wands and mouth sticks: Devices that attach to the head or are held in the mouth to control a computer mouse, keyboard, or other assistive technology using neck and jaw movements.

A Differently able boy try to draw on paper

• Single switch: A large button or touch-sensitive pad that can be activated with a body part to perform computer commands, often requiring special software for translation.

A Target based single switch that runs on minimal force

• Sip-and-puff switch: Similar to a single switch but operated by blowing and sucking air into a mouthpiece, useful for individuals with head muscle control but limited movement from the neck down.

• Oversized trackball mouse: A larger trackball device designed for easier operation with assistive devices like head wands.

• Adaptive keyboard: A keyboard with word-completion technology and raised gaps between keys, allowing users to rest their hands and accommodate muscle spasms.

A special designed keyboard for people with backbone problem

• Eye-tracking devices: Devices that track eye movements to navigate the web, useful for individuals with limited or no hand control.

Eye tracking device to keep the user focused on the area

• Voice recognition software: Software that converts spoken commands into computer actions, but may not be suitable for individuals with severe speech impairments caused by conditions like cerebral palsy.

Voice Recognition helps a person to navigate

Here are some key considerations for motor/mobility accessibility in design:

1. Clear Pathways: Ensure that there are clear, unobstructed pathways throughout the environment, including entrances, hallways, and public spaces. Remove any physical barriers such as steps, uneven surfaces, or obstacles that may hinder movement or pose a tripping hazard.
2. Accessible Entrances: Provide accessible entrances with ramps or elevators for individuals who use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches. Ensure that these entrances are wide enough to accommodate the passage of mobility devices.
3. Doorways and Thresholds: Design doorways and thresholds to be wide enough to allow easy passage for individuals using mobility devices. Install automatic doors or lever handles that can be easily operated with minimal effort.
4. Accessible Parking: Designate accessible parking spaces located close to entrances and ensure they have sufficient width and an accessible route to the building entrance. Include appropriate signage and markings to indicate reserved parking spaces.
5. Assistive Devices and Equipment: Incorporate features that assist individuals with motor impairments, such as handrails, grab bars, and ramps, to enhance stability and support during movement.
6. Furniture and Seating: Provide a range of seating options, including chairs with armrests and back support, to accommodate individuals with different mobility needs. Arrange furniture in a way that allows for easy navigation and movement within the space.
7. Height-adjustable Surfaces: Consider incorporating height-adjustable surfaces such as workstations, counters, and tables to accommodate individuals who use wheelchairs or have different heights and mobility needs.
8. Clear Signage and Wayfinding: Use clear and legible signage with high-contrast colors and large fonts to assist individuals with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities in navigating the environment. Include symbols and tactile signage where appropriate.
9. Lighting and Visibility: Ensure that the environment is well-lit with adequate lighting to aid visibility and reduce the risk of tripping or falling. Minimize glare and shadows that may impede visibility for individuals with visual impairments.
10. User Testing and Feedback: Involve individuals with motor impairments or mobility limitations in user testing and gather feedback to understand any challenges they may face. This feedback can inform design improvements and ensure a more inclusive environment.

These are the general guidelines for any system which is trying to cover the motor/mobility challenged people, for any web and software….
The designer should know its auidence extensivity😎

Signing off…………………….