The proliferation of Internet web sites has drastically changed the way we access information. With just a click of your mouse or a few quick keystrokes, you can read today’s news headlines, find driving directions to a new restaurant across town, deposit funds into your checking account, schedule a doctor’s appointment, or watch a video of your niece’s piano recital. Although there is a virtual wealth of information available at your fingertips, those with visual impairments often struggle to access this data.
Our friends at Lighthouse International are pleased to offer tips to increase Internet information accessibility. Did you know that you can increase the font size on most common types of browsers? Once you’ve changed your browser settings, the text size you have selected will remain the same for any web site you visit.
In addition to allowing for increased font size to improve web site viewing, most browser-based Internet application suites provide customizable accessibility features. Many of these enhanced features have been specifically designed for those with visual impairments to more easily use their applications, such as e-mail, calendaring, word-processing, and more.
Some of the features that support increased accessibility include:
- Screen reader compatibility
- Images with text equivalents
- Enlargeable text
- Voice to text message transcription
- Full-page zoom
For specific instructions on how to use these additional browser-based features, locate the help topics for the suite of applications you are using. Then enter the words “accessibility features” in the help search box to learn how to customize the browser-based applications to meet your specific visual needs. Here is some quick access to application settings for some of the major Internet application suites:
The American Foundation for the Blind has a number of other ideas to share about assistive or adaptive technology including:
- A searchable database of assistive technology products
- Tips on using technology effectively
- Advice on making web sites accessible
- Cell phone accessibility
If you’ve discovered any special tips or tricks for easier website viewing or use of browser-based applications, please share them with us so we can pass them on.