How to Use a Computer if You Are Blind or Visually Impaired

Опубликовал Admin
28-06-2017, 19:40
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If you are blind or visually impaired, you can use a computer to maintain your independence. Computers can be intimidating, especially if you don't have much experience using one – but the many accessibility options make it relatively easy to use a computer if you are blind or visually impaired. Choose a computer with accessibility features that are intuitive and easy for you to use. Tablets and smartphones have similar accessibility options as well.

Choosing Your Computer

  1. Identify tasks that are most difficult for you. Generally, the things you need to do on a computer will fall into four categories. The types of activities you have the most difficulty with will determine which computer set-up will work best for you.
    • For example, if you have difficulty using a computer mouse to navigate the screen, you may prefer a computer with a touch-screen or a laptop with a touchpad instead of a mouse.
    • If you have difficulty reading text on the screen, even when it's magnified, you may need a computer that will read out things on the screen rather than depend on you to see them.
  2. Try out different operating systems. The two most popular OS options are Windows or Apple's OS X. Since the Windows operating system is licensed to different manufacturers, you have a wider range of options there.
    • Generally, both operating systems have similar accessibility features built in. Compare the way each operates so you can decide which one makes better sense for you.
    • Compare different manufacturers of Windows machines as well, so you can find the configuration that works best for you personally and also fits your budget.
  3. Decide on a desktop or a laptop. Since they generally use the same operating systems, choosing between a desktop and a laptop is largely a matter of personal preference. While your visual impairment may play a role, it largely depends on how portable you want your computer to be.
    • If you travel frequently and want to have your computer with you, a laptop may be better for you than a desktop.
    • If you're more comfortable with a larger screen, you may want to choose a desktop computer instead. Get a smaller device, such as a tablet, to take with you when you need to use a computer while traveling.
  4. Compare text-to-speech options. Both Windows and OS X have built-in text-to-speech programs that will read aloud any text that appears on your computer screen. You can listen to the two narrators and decide which one you like better.
    • If you're not happy with either of the built-in text-to-speech options, search online for third-party apps that you can download. You should be able to watch demos of these programs so you can find the one you like the best.
  5. Seek out refurbished machines. If you're on a tight budget, you'll spend less money and get more computing power and storage space if you buy refurbished. Typically these machines come with a limited warranty.
    • Manufacturers refurbish computers to certain standards before selling them as certified refurbished machines. That certification entitles you to a warranty and other quality guarantees that you wouldn't get if you just bought a used computer that wasn't certified.
  6. Get a computer through Computers for the Blind (CFTB). If you live in the United States, you may be able to purchase a low-cost computer designed specifically for people who are blind or visually impaired.
    • CFTB is a nonprofit organization that provides refurbished computers to people who are blind or visually impaired at a reduced cost. You also can get accessibility software installed for an additional cost.
    • Outside the United States, check with your nearest nonprofit or governmental organization that assists people who are blind or visually impaired. They will be able to point you towards similar opportunities where you live.

Customizing Accessibility Features

  1. Turn on your screen magnifier. Regardless of the operating system, all personal computers come with a screen magnifier pre-installed. You can access it by opening the accessibility options on your computer or through keyboard shortcuts.
    • For example, on a Windows machine you can turn on the magnifier by pressing the Windows key and the "+" on the number pad at the same time. Each time you press these keys, the magnification of the screen will increase. Pressing the Windows key with the "-" on the number pad decreases the magnification.
  2. Download a screen reader. Magnifiers can only do so much, and you may find that even at the highest level of magnification you're still unable to read the screen. Screen readers convert printed text to audio so that you can continue to use a computer, even if you're blind or visually impaired.
    • For example, you might be able to use NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access). You can download this open-source software from the internet and use it for free.
    • Windows-Eyes is another screen reader that you can get for free if you are using Microsoft Office 2010 or later.
  3. Install any other software you need. There are other software companies that have created accessibility software that may work better for you than the features that came pre-installed on your computer.
    • These options also may be beneficial if you don't have the budget to buy a new computer and are using an older machine that doesn't have the same accessibility features that newer computers do.
    • For example, there are screen-magnifier programs that have more features than those that are pre-installed with the operating system.
  4. Configure your text-to-speech. Both Mac and Windows-based computers have text-to-speech options pre-installed. You can enable this option in specific contexts, such as when you're using your word-processing program.
    • Tinker with the different settings until the narrator is speaking at a volume and speed you like. These will be a matter of personal preference.

Using Tablets and Smart Phones

  1. Experiment with different devices. There are a number of different Apple and Android-based mobile devices that you can use. Each of these devices has its own accessibility features, some of which might work better for you than others.
    • The accessibility features should be intuitive and easy to locate on your phone or tablet, so you can adjust them as necessary. Unlike with a computer, you may need to adjust your settings more frequently to account for changing lights and other circumstances that affect your ability to see your screen.
    • Look for the device that is not only accessible, but also feels right for you to hold and carry around.
  2. Adjust the vision settings. Immediately after purchasing a new tablet or smartphone, open the accessibility menu and work with the vision settings until you can see and navigate your screen properly.
    • If the text on the menu is too small for you to see before you make adjustments, ask someone to help you. Many retailers will help you set up your new device at new extra charge after your purchase is complete.
  3. Add a wireless keyboard to your device. With a wireless keyboard, your device will be just as accessible as your computer is. You'll have access to all the same applications, features, and shortcut keys that you already know.
  4. Get a home device without a screen. Especially if you don't have much experience using computers, you may have trouble remembering keyboard shortcuts or navigating accessibility menus. A device with a voice-activated speaker can enable you to use the internet without needing any of these features.
    • These home devices, such as Google Home or Amazon Echo, are connected to your home wi-fi. By speaking to them and asking them questions, you can use them to access the internet to get information and buy products or services.
    • You also can use these devices to listen to music or podcasts, as well as having them read news and entertainment articles to you.
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