World Usability Day is an annual global event on the 12th of November to promote usability, user‑centered design, and the creation of products and services that are easier for people to use.
As 2026 draws to a close we would like to share with you a roundup of Assistive Technology news as well as some additional resources.
Emer drives her wheelchair-adapted car independently — from the button on her keys that automatically opens the back door and deploys the ramp, to the hand controls and dial system that put everything within reach. Getting there took a driving assessment with the Irish Wheelchair Association, a GP sign-off, lessons, and a visit to Multibility Island in Ashbourne to get her car adapted to her exact needs. It's a process but the freedom at the end of it is real. >> How I Learned to Drive from My Wheelchair and Why It Changed Everything. — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved stories, animation, fairy tales, and illustration. Growing up, I never really saw myself as “artistic” in the traditional sense. Because of reduced mobility in my hands and arms, drawing with pencil and paper was difficult for me. >> Caoimhe Boers: How the iPad paved the way for me as an Artist — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
Assistive Technology News Monthly: July 2026 — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
In this episode of Software Made Human, host Garrett Sheridan chats with MDI Member Dr. Aoife McNicholl, assistant professor of psychology at Dublin City University. >> 🔄 A.T. Tuesday: Inclusive Technology and Universal Design with Dr. Aoife McNicholl (Podcast) — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
Founder and Developer of Switchify Owen McGirr is a passionate software developer and accessibility advocate from Donegal, Ireland. Living with cerebral palsy, Owen has firsthand experience navigating the challenges that come with using technology as a switch user. >> 🔄 A.T. Tuesday: Switchify revolutionises how people with physical disabilities interact with their Android devices. — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
Microsoft Accessibility website for Microsoft’s accessibility features. Empowering people with disabilities - In today’s connected world, access to technology is central to the way we operate, and it is fundamental to a more accessible future. Through tech innovation, together, we can empower people across the global spectrum of disability.
Keyboard Shortcuts - Keyboard shortcuts in Windows - Microsoft Support
Alexa video resources - Amazon Alexa - YouTube
Google Nest video resources - Google Nest - YouTube
The MDI knowledge base aims to be a one-stop resource for every child, adult, and family living with a neuromuscular condition. Here you can find some suggestions regarding resources, products, and organisations to assist daily living. >> Resources To Assist Daily Living | Empower Your Independence — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
Pet Depot, the family-run pet shops in Enniscorthy and Wicklow, trading online as petshopnearme.ie. They have built their online shop to the WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standard. They would appreciate any feedback MDI members have on accessibility around their website, please sent it to hello@petshopnearme.ie Accessibility | Pet Shop Near Me. Click here to read the full press release.
Resources
MDI webinar recording, Enable Ireland Windows, iOS, Android Webinar, Smart Home Devices Webinar, Assistive Technology Information Webinar - Assistive Technology Webinars — Muscular Dystrophy Ireland
Jade and Jackie sit down with Christopher Mutch, owner and inventor of Speaking Access, voice control software for Windows and NVDA. Find out how somebody goes from chainsaw carving to writing computer software. https://thetechdocpod.com/
Eye Gaze Games, Welcome to our free and accessible browser games, designed for enjoying together on a level playing field. >> Eye Gaze Games - SpecialEffect
Email, by voice. Lumin is a voice-first email assistant for your iPhone. Tap once, talk to it, and it reads, replies to, deletes, and triages your email — without you having to look at a screen. Designed alongside the blind and low-vision community. Useful for anyone who'd rather work with their voice than their thumbs. >>> https://apps.apple.com/app/id6762822189
SensePilot is a new piece of software that is webcam based to enable hands-free computer gaming, enabling individuals with limited reach to control their computers using head movements and facial gestures/expressions.
The Hubert Assistive Technology support service offers individualised support to members with a neuromuscular condition by providing them with valuable information, support, and advocacy on how to secure smart technologies that can assist members to improve challenges faced in their everyday lives. Our aim is to create a supportive environment where individuals with a neuromuscular condition can thrive and achieve their full potential. People with disabilities face a variety of challenges, be it at home, in education, employment, healthcare, social isolation, independent living, and funding, we want to assist members in getting assistive technology to help them with these areas. We will contact you to follow up. The Hubert AT Information Support Service – Fill in form