High and Low Tech Access Tools | VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

High and Low Tech Access Tools

Inexpensive “screen reading” (synthetic voice) and magnification software offer people who are blind or visually impaired access to information via computers never thought possible. With “assistive devices” virtually any job can be productively performed by an employee with low vision or no vision.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the tools that are useful for people with vision impairments:

For Reading Print:

Use a hand/stand magnifier
Enlarge information on photo copier
Provide information in large print
Improve lighting or use task lighting
Use a closed circuit television system (CCTV)
Use alternative optical wear, i.e. clip-on monocular or loupes; prism spectacles; binocular systems, or a hand held monocular
Use an optical character recognition system (OCR)
Use a “20/20” pen or felt marker on heavy lined paper
Provide a reader

For Computer and internet Access:

Increase font size or change Accessibility Options in Windows Accessories control panel

Use text based web browser

Install screen magnification software
Use an anti-glare or anti-radiation computer screen guard
Install screen reading “synthetic speech” software
Use a computer Braille display

For Reading Telephone or Pager Display:

Provide a light sensor or light probe
Add large print labels or locator dots on telephone keypad
Use a hand/stand/optical magnifier
Change the way telephone calls are received and distributed to others
Use a talking digital display reader (for LED displays)

For Using Telephone and Speech Output on Computer at the Same Time:

Use dual channel headset
Provide an earplug for the computer and a monaural headset for the telephone

Sensitivity to Light:

Lower wattage of overhead lights
Provide task or alternative lighting
Place desk or work station so person has their back to the window
Place blinds on windows to reduce glare

Source: Job Accommodations Network, A Service Of The Office Of Disability Employment Policy of The US Dept Of Labor, “Job Accommodations For People With Vision Impairments,” www.jan.wvu.edu; VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, www.visionsvcb.org.

VISIONS©2006 12/2006