Computers Bring Independence

Independence is the major benefit the computer has brought to the disabled. Computers free a person with disabilities from relying on others for assistance. New opportunities offered by computers are impressive. With the use of a computer, an individual can learn at his or her own speed. Adaptive aids have either replaced or augmented the standard input and output devices of the computer. They are the key that has opened the computer world to the disabled.

Computers Address Hearing, Sight, and Cognitive Disabilities

Because of its versatility, the computer can be the tool that overcomes many physical impairments such as hearing, sight, and cognitive disabilities. With a hearing disability, the computer can easily substitute words and images for sounds. Because the computer is so sight-oriented, you would anticipate fundamental drawbacks. Technology to the rescue. With the introduction of today’s multimedia programs, alternatives to audio information have been developed that offer a display of visual feedback.

Yes, the computer is a visual tool, but it can be modified to accommodate the visually impaired. Both software and hardware can be designed for use by the visually impaired. Programs such as screen readers like the popular JAWS program speak what the computer displays. Braille keyboards and screen magnifiers are popular aids. Key guards and other alternative keyboards are also available. The keytops of some special keyboards have text in a size and color that a visually impaired or mentally retarded person can easily see and read.

For cognitive disabilities, head mounted pointers and voice input, also known as speech recognition, are available. Users can simply speak commands into a microphone connected to the computer. For persons with limited mobility and dexterity, ultra-sensitive hyperlinks called hovers allow use of alternative mouse equipment to activate a link just by coming within range.

Internet Resources for the Disabled

Besides offering efficient tools for the disabled to access a computer, the world of technology also offers great resources for information. One of these very helpful resources for the disabled community is Infinitec, Inc. This company has launched an improved fully accessible Web site at http://www.infinitec.org/. The site’s Total Resources Guide directs persons with hearing or vision loss to resources that pertain to every aspect of daily living. This Web site has considerable information on assistive technology devices and adaptive aids.

As a country, Sweden has long been very progressive in exploring new technology for the disabled. During the last twelve years, the Swedish Handicap Institute has been responsible for more than 130 projects focusing on new technology for people with disabilities. The goal of one project was to increase the autonomy of mentally handicapped people in the home as well as at work or at daycare. Using computer software primarily based on iconic pictures or picture symbols chosen by pointing at the screen, disabled individuals are able to better understand the flow of time, keep track of times for various activities and for radio and TV programs, and monitor their schedules.

The handicapped and disabled can also use e-mail to stay in the know about the latest news in adaptive technology. UCLA has a Disabilities and Computing Program that has launched a new listserve to bring the latest information in this field to the disabled. It is a low-volume, announcement-only list with weekly updates and occasional bulletins of breaking news. Interested participants are kept informed of all the latest adaptive product releases and upgrades as well as developments on the hot topics of accessible Web design, electronic books, accessibility standards, distance education, and much more. 

PC Manufacturers Provide Access

A good sign of the times is that computer manufacturers and developers of operating systems are building in access solutions for the disabled; often the solutions are provided free of charge. Many computer companies are committed to providing the disabled an access to the information highway and all the advantages knowledge brings. Both Microsoft and Apple, the developers of two of the most popular operating systems, have corporate policies for accessibility for people with disabilities. This means that current and future releases of their operating systems will, as standard, contain accessibility features and support for third party manufacturers of assistive devices.

Already PCs have slots and serial ports that allow connection of both standard peripherals and assistive devices. More and more warnings and alert messages are presented both visually and audibly. Certain features of the keyboard can be adjusted, such as the key repeat rate and the key activation delay time. The arrow keys of the keyboard can be used for cursor movements instead of the mouse. Windows and Mac computers both have accessibility features like screen magnifiers built into the operating system. Many printers can be controlled and monitored from the computer site, which is advantageous for mobility-impaired persons.

Access to today’s information and communication systems is required for disabled people to achieve their full productive potential. Technology continues to modify its tools, primarily the computer, to offer accessible hardware, operating systems, and software so that the handicapped and the disabled can take their place in a productive and meaningful world.   For some I am sure that these tools are not being developed quickly enough. But none-the-less, technology is providing a steady stream of support for the disabled.