Question
How To Configure A Computer For A Partailly Blind Person?
My husband is Partially Blind and his sight has started to deteriorate in the last few months making it difficult for him to use the computer, something he enjoys using and would like to continue using. Is there a way to configure a computer for a partially blind person to make the computer easier to use, if so how?
My husband is Partially Blind and his sight has started to deteriorate in the last few months making it difficult for him to use the computer, something he enjoys using and would like to continue using. Is there a way to configure a computer for a partially blind person to make the computer easier to use, if so how?
Answer
Here are 10 ways in which you could configure a computer for a blind person:
- Screen readers give voice to computers through applications that transforms written words and keyboard commands into human-sounding speech-the sort you might hear on automated phone and voicemail systems.
- The most popular screen access program is JAWS for Windows. JAWS reads aloud what's onscreen, beginning the with installation instructions, and provides key command so the user can launch programs, navigate their desktop, read documents, and surf the web using just their keyboard.
- You can also buy a Braille keyboard cover so a blind person can distinguish which button is which letter or control.
- Alternatively a braille labeller could be used to put a small piece of tape identifying a few of the keys around the keyboard. The function keys, the arrow keys and major keys such as "Enter," "Tab," "Ctrl" and "Shift" could be labelled as these are the most used.
- Making sure speakers are turned up loud enough and are clear enough for a blind person to hear the program which turns written instructions into human sounding speech.
- Make sure mouse, keyboard and speakers are positioned so the blind person can use devices with ease.
- One way for a blind person to interact with their computer is to speak to it. With voice recognition software, the right hardware, and some time and patience, you can train your computer to recognise text you dictate and commands that you issue.
- Make sure all peripherals such as printers, mouse keyboard and speakers are already plugged in or inserted into the computer as a blind person will struggle to do so.
- Someone should make sure all software the blind person will require and use I installed on the computer and in a place easy to find, for instance on the desktop.
- Magnifier will allocate a section of your screen (by default at the top) where it will display a magnified version of what is under your mouse.
- You could go into control panel and make shortcut buttons, icons, toolbar, text and cursor a larger size so it is easier for a partially blind person to see.
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