Optimizing emails for subscribers with motor skills-related disabilities

Imagine nearly 968 million people struggling with tasks like writing, fastening buttons, and navigating the internet — tasks that most of us do effortlessly.

This means every 9th person cannot interact with emails the way others can. Some might choose not to subscribe, but what about those who do? We can make their interactions with our emails way more pleasant.

Let us explore types of motor skills-related disabilities and ways to address them effectively.

Motor skills-related disabilities: Types and their impact on email user experience

Motor skills-related disabilities impair coordination, strength, or precision in fine (e.g., writing) and gross motor skills (e.g., walking), often stemming from neurological, musculoskeletal, or developmental conditions.

Types of motor skills-related disabilities

Let’s explore conditions that specifically impact the ability to navigate the internet, including using tools like a mouse and keyboard, their effects, and the number of people affected.

Arthritis, osteoporosis, and cerebral palsy:

People with these conditions often face pain, mobility issues, and challenges with movement and coordination.

• Number of people affected: 568 million worldwide (Arthritis: 350 million, Osteoporosis: 200 million, Cerebral palsy: 18 million).

Dyspraxia:

This condition affects coordination and motor skills, making people struggle with tasks like writing, using utensils, and operating traditional tools like a mouse and keyboard.

• Number of people affected: 800 million globally (400 million facing significant challenges).

Combined, these numbers exceed three times the population of the United States.

Temporary impairment:

Many experience temporary impairments, such as a broken arm, a sprained wrist, recovery from surgery, or severe muscle strain. These conditions can similarly impact the ability to interact with technology and perform tasks requiring fine or gross motor skills.

How motor skills-related disabilities affect email user experience

Navigation barriers:

• limited dexterity may require alternative input methods, such as adaptive keyboards, voice controls, or eye-tracking devices.

Interaction issues:

• problems with precise movements and clicking on small buttons, drop-down menus, or densely packed elements;
• difficulty with holding down multiple keyboard keys simultaneously;
• difficulties with the elements that require hover.

Cognitive load:

• overly complex layouts that are hard to navigate with assistive tools as they can overwhelm users relying on assistive technologies.

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Assistive tools for motor skills-related disabilities and email optimization tips

Individuals with motor skills-related disabilities often use various assistive tools to navigate and read emails effectively. Here's an overview of key tools, their functionalities, and considerations for inclusive email design:

1. Eye-tracking devices

These devices monitor eye movements to control the cursor, enabling users to navigate and interact with digital content through gaze direction.

Content optimization tips:

• use large, well-spaced clickable elements (e.g., buttons and links);
• avoid hover-based interactions and ensure all functionality is accessible with a single click.

2. Speech recognition software

This software converts spoken words into text and executes voice commands, allowing users to dictate emails and control computer functions verbally.

Content optimization tips:

• ensure proper use of heading structures (e.g., H1, H2) to enhance navigation by voice commands. For example, a subscriber might say, "Go to section 'Key Features,'" and the software relies on correctly structured headings to locate that section. Without proper semantic organization, the tool may struggle to interpret the layout;
• use concise, descriptive text for links and buttons, such as "Download Guide" instead of "Click Here." For example, a button labeled "Download Guide" allows a subscriber to say, "Click Download Guide," enabling the software to recognize the command. Ambiguous labels like "Click Here" provide no context, leaving the tool unsure which "Click Here" button to select.

The example above shows how it appears to other recipients — naturally, without affecting your overall design.

3. Adaptive keyboards

Adaptive keyboards feature larger keys, customizable layouts, and keyguards (plastic or metal overlays) to prevent accidental presses. Some are operated with minimal movement, such as tapping with a single finger, wrist, or elbow.

Content optimization tips:

• design emails to support keyboard navigation with a logical tab order. This means that elements should go from top to bottom or left to right.

4. Touchscreen and stylus alternatives

Touchscreens paired with styluses or alternative pointing devices allow users to interact with content through touch or specialized tools.

Content optimization tips:

• increase touch target size to at least 44x44 pixels, as recommended by accessibility standards;
• avoid reliance on gestures such as swipe-to-reveal for critical actions;
• ensure buttons and other actionable elements use larger fonts and are designed to fit the screen width on mobile devices.

5. Joystick mice

Enable cursor control through joystick movements, aiding users with limited hand mobility.

Content optimization tips:

• avoid interactive content such as auto-scrolling carousels that could disrupt navigation;
• ensure clickable elements have sufficient padding for easier selection.

6. Foot pedals

Allow users to execute commands using foot-operated controls, providing an alternative to hand-based inputs.

Content optimization tips:

• avoid time-sensitive content or actions that require quick responses.

Implementing these optimizations ensures your emails are accessible, enabling subscribers who rely on assistive tools to navigate and engage with your content effortlessly.

Wrapping up

Optimizing emails for recipients with motor skills-related disabilities is not just about inclusivity — it’s about creating a seamless experience for people around us. By understanding the challenges faced by individuals using assistive tools, marketers can design emails that are more accessible, user-friendly, and effective.

Key takeaways:

• ensure a logical tab order and provide clear focus indicators to help subscribers relying on adaptive keyboards or switch devices;
• use large, well-spaced buttons and avoid hover-based interactions to accommodate those individuals who use eye-tracking devices and touchscreen alternatives;
• provide descriptive text for links, buttons, and headings to improve usability for speech recognition software;
• keep layouts clean and avoid overly complex designs that increase cognitive load;
• regularly test emails with assistive technologies to identify and resolve accessibility gaps.