Mirabo Launches Innovative Support App for Disabled People in Miyako City, Iwate

Breakthrough for Disability Support in Miyako City

In a significant advancement for accessibility in the Tohoku region, a new support application tailored for people with disabilities has been launched in Miyako City, Iwate, by the esteemed company Mirabo, headquartered in Tokyo. This initiative marks the first introduction of such a municipal service in Tohoku, aiming to enhance the lives of citizens with disabilities by ensuring that they have instant access to necessary information and services.

Background of the Miyako Disability Support App

The app, aptly named the "Miyako Region Disability Support App," has been developed in accordance with the principles outlined in the Act on Promotion of Communication and Information Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities, which was enacted on May 25, 2022. This law mandates the creation of an environment where individuals with disabilities can access needed information and services at anytime.

Mirabo's innovative solution is not just a mobile application; it's a comprehensive tool designed to cater to individual needs, enabling tailored notifications and providing essential information regarding disability welfare. The application is available for download on both the App Store and Google Play, simply by searching for its name, or through their designated web portal.

Key Features of the App

The app is loaded with features designed to improve communication, accessibility, and user experience for individuals living with disabilities:

1. Personalized Notifications: Notifications traditionally distributed via newsletters or mail are now delivered through the app, ensuring timely dissemination of information. Users can filter notifications based on specific conditions, ensuring that individuals receive relevant updates tailored to their personal needs.

2. Digital Version of the Disability Welfare Guide: The app digitizes the previously printed Disability Welfare Guide, allowing users to search, filter, and obtain critical information based on the type and degree of disability.

3. Comprehensive Business Listings: Users can access a list of local service providers, enabling them to find necessary support and services that cater specifically to their requirements.

4. Integration of Digital Disability Handbook (Mirairo ID): Users can easily display their digital disability identification, enhancing the convenience of carrying this vital documentation.

5. Barrier-Free Maps: The app offers a map that highlights wheelchair-accessible facilities, restrooms, and other critical resources, aiding users in navigating public spaces confidently.

6. Digital Support File: For families with children requiring developmental guidance, the app allows for the digital recording of growth progress and support activities, making information sharing with professionals in health, education, and welfare easier.

Insights from Miyako City Officials

Kazuya Kanazawa, head of the Miyako City Health and Welfare Department, shared insights regarding the app's introduction. The decision stemmed from a survey conducted during the development of the 2023 Welfare Plan, revealing a high demand among residents for applications that facilitate access to disability welfare information. The need for digital solutions was evident, prompting the collaboration with Mirabo to implement this specialized application.

According to Kanazawa, the app not only restructures the way vital information is communicated but also introduces features that empower users, such as making support files easily manageable and incorporating real-time updates reflecting any changes in welfare policies.

Future Vision for the App

While the current focus is primarily on Miyako City, the app is envisioned to eventually encompass broader information relevant to the entire Miyako region, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability based on user feedback.

Mirabo intends to track actual usage patterns and user experiences to refine the application further, ensuring it remains a vital tool for individuals with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and local businesses.

In conclusion, the launch of the Miyako Region Disability Support App signifies a crucial step forward in community support and empowerment for people with disabilities, promoting a more inclusive society where access to information and assistance is streamlined and efficient.