If you or someone you know is coping with a sudden disability, or even if they’ve always had it, here are some helpful resources you can use to learn how get the most out of your technology.
1. Take a Class
Last night while I was digging around for the latest information on accessibility technology, I stumbled on a udemy class. It’s called Accessibility Features of iOS for the iPad and iPhone and it’s totally free. The class is broken up into logical sections, so you can easily find the content that is relevant to you. Also, the instructor has a son with disabilities, so he really understands how impactful the technology can be.
You’ll learn all kinds of helpful tricks in the class, like how to personalize the touch commands on your device. You will also learn about complementary tech that can make your device even more useful. For example, did you know there are Bluetooth Braille displays?
These awesome displays connect to your device (not just iOS) and convert the text into Braille. Apple made a list of the Braille displays that are compatible with iOS devices, and Android has a similar list of displays that work with their BrailleBack program.
It’s not necessary to take this specific class (in fact, if you know of a good one please share it in the comments below). There are likely others, but I can recommend this one because I’ve taken it and found it useful.2. Learn from the Experts
A lot of technology industry giants put effort into developing accessibility guides. Most people only go to a device website if they need help with a specific problem. You’re going to need to cast that notion aside and explore these sites. There are so many options and opportunities to make your technology work for you if you just do a little digging.
For example, I didn’t know that the “night shift” option on my iPhone until I was clicking around. While the feature is meant for people to use at night, I keep mine on all of the time because it’s easier on my light sensitive eyes. Below you’ll find quick links to accessibility websites for some big brands:
- Android Accessibility Help
- iOS Accessibility
- Samsung Accessibility
- Sony Accessibility and Usability
- Microsoft Accessibility (includes all Windows devices)
- LG Accessibility
- Amazon Fire Accessibility (includes links to Kindle accessibility information)
3. Install the UserWay Widget
If you’re a website owner then you can help people right now. Adding this widget to your site will help boost your accessibility without touching your code. It’s free, it’s simple to install, and it’ll give your users a bunch of handy options to adjust the site settings to suit their needs.
Things like increasing text size, making the font more readable, highlighting links, and more are all taken care of through the widget.
4. Find Helpful Apps
Apps aren’t just about fun and games. There is a whole host of app options made to increase the accessibility of your device. Here are some helpful lists of the best accessibility apps out there:
- 10 iPhone and iPad Apps That Take Accessibility To The Next Level
- 10 best Android apps for the disabled
- Top 10 apps for disabled people
If you don’t see something that you need, consider developing it yourself. As technology evolves, now is a great time to help make the lives of your peers even easier. App development is an easy way to make a positive impact and create apps for people with disabilities. It might be tough for most people to imagine what a disabled person needs help with, so coming up with useful tools is left to those who know what it’s like.
Technology is meant to help people in their daily lives. While it’s initially set up to cater to a wide audience of people that do not have disabilities, don’t let that stop you. Some research and a few trial runs can help you find incredible features that adapt your technology to suit your unique needs.
