The second round of the M-Enabling Forum Europe kicks off on 19 September during REHACARE 2019 (18 to 21 September). Representatives of associations of disabled persons, public authorities and technology companies join political decision-makers to discuss barrier-free access to digital technology and its use.
Digital information, particularly websites, should be transparent, safe and accessible to all. “National and international accessibility laws are slowly being put into practice and are enabling people with specific limitations to participate more fully in the digital world,” explains Regine Gessner, Project Manager for the M-Enabling Forum.
Parallel forums address various target groups
At the opening of the international conference, an EU Commission representative will be speaking about the current status of the European Accessibility Act. In the afternoon, parallel forums will take a closer look at solutions for an independent life at home and on the go that are suitable for the elderly. The forums also focus on technologies for barrier-free work places as well as inclusive digital offers in the education sector.
The M-Enabling Forum will be hosted in room 3 at the Congress Center Düsseldorf Süd (CCD Süd). The conference is accompanied by an exhibition in the foyer, where companies and sponsors present new aids and services for a barrier-free, independent life. Among them are acoustic aids for the hearing impaired, for example, as well as screen reading systems for the blind.
Understanding limitations
A particular highlight at the event is the live virtual reality showcase, which simulates various visual impairments and blindness as well as a tremor as an example of motor disorders. Using virtual reality glasses, conference participants can immerse themselves in various scenarios and gain tangible, first-hand experience of these limitations.
Even though powerful technologies are already available, they often still need to make their way into the everyday life of people with disabilities. “When developing software, websites and products, it is essential to consider the needs of these people from the start,” emphasises Regine Gessner.
Noticeable success
Even though there is still much to be done, the success of the M-Enabling Forum is already noticeable. “Since last year, we have seen a significant improvement in awareness of the importance of digital participation as well as in name recognition of our event,” says project manager Gessner.
150 conference guests from 14 countries took up the invitation to the first M-Enabling Forum in Europe in September 2018 and thus proved that REHACARE provides the ideal backdrop for this top specialist event. The conference is organised by E.J.Krause & Associates Inc. and G3ict, one of the projects initiated by the United Nations in 2011, which drives the development of inclusive information and communication technology worldwide.
Entry to the daylong conference with accompanying exhibition costs €119 and includes entry to REHACARE on all days of the fair at no extra charge. The exhibition is open to REHACARE visitors from 2 pm to 6 pm on 19 September. Information is available at the M-Enabling Forum stand in Hall 6 (6/E25).
When registering, people with disabilities can download a barcode onto their phone in order to access information as an audio file. The presentations and discussions will all be simultaneously translated into English and German and subtitled in parallel. Hearing impaired people with their own hearing devices or cochlear implants can request an amplifier (neck loop).
About REHACARE Düsseldorf
REHACARE is the world’s leading trade fair for rehabilitation and care. Held annually at Messe Düsseldorf, it offers a representative overview of the devices and expertise available for helping people with disabilities and those requiring care to lead independent lives. The trade fair will be opening its doors from Wednesday to Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and on Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission tickets are available from the online ticket shop. For further information visit: www.rehacare.com
Düsseldorf, 2 July 2019
