Computer Access
If you have a learning disability that prevents you from reading or spelling – check out our page on learning disabilities.
If you have a physical impairment that makes accessing a computer difficult, there are many options to help you maintain or to regain access to the computer.
Voice Recognition
Voice recognition is a popular option, but there are pros and cons that must be considered – check out my blog post on this topic for more detail. Click Here
Windows computer has built in voice recognition software that has come a long way. It can be a first option to try to see if voice recognition is the right solutions for you. Mac computers also have a dictation feature built in. It should be noted that although the built in solutions have matured, they are not as robust as purchased software. If someone needs total hands free access to the computer, then purchased software is usually the best option.
Keyboard and Mouse Access
In general, to provide access to the computer, a person needs keyboard access as well as mouse access.
There are many alternative keyboards on the market. Most of the time, an alternative keyboard has a different layout and can actually slow down a user’s typing even more.
Both PC and Mac computers have on screen keyboards that allow keys to be typed by clicking on the screen. This is an option that should be considered and trialed as this is often a faster option that an alternative keyboard. Click here to read our blog post on this topic.
There are also accessibility settings that can be done on the computer to help prevent accidental or multiple key presses.
Using a standard mouse requires gripping and fine motor control. There are a number of mouse alternatives that can be used from trackballs, to a head mouse, to eye gaze. Please contact us to help you find the right solution for you!