Assistive Technology for the Blind and Visually Impaired: An Overview

This blog post will be the first in a series exploring Assistive Technology (A.T.) for the blind and visually impaired. In the future, we will dive deeper into A.T. that can enhance independence and quality of life for individuals with visual impairments. We'll discuss screen readers, braille displays, screen magnifiers, apps, and other tools that are making life more accessible. 

What is Assistive Technology for the Blind and Visually Impaired?

Assistive technology is an invaluable resource for individuals with visual impairments, comparable to a toolbox filled with remarkable gadgets and tools. These tools are expertly crafted to alleviate the challenges faced by people who have difficulty seeing, empowering them to navigate their daily lives with greater ease and independence.

These tools can be classified into several key categories:

1. Screen Readers:

   • These programs transform digital text into synthesized speech or braille. They normally navigate the screen as if you were reading a book; from left to right and top to bottom.

   • The most common examples are:

     1. JAWS - this stands for Job Access with Speech and is available for Windows as a one time purchase or yearly subscription.

     2. NVDA - this stands for Non-Visual Desktop Access, this is completely free and Open-Source.

     3. VoiceOver - this comes preloaded on all iPhones, iPads, and Mac Computers. For more information on all of the accessibility features available to Apple users, go to Apple Accessibility: Vision.

     4. TalkBack - like VoiceOver, this comes pre-loaded on all Android devices.

2. Braille Displays:

   • These use the synthesized information from a screen reader to turn the digital text into refreshable braille characters.

   • The way these work is while the screen reader cursor is moving around the screen, the braille will change to represent what is being outputted by the screen reader.

   • Some common examples and brands are as follows:

     1. Focus 40 by Freedom Scientific

     2. Chameleon 20 by APH

     3. Mantis Q40 by Humanware

3. Screen Magnifiers:

   • These software applications enlarge on-screen content, enhancing visibility for individuals with low vision.

   • For Windows the most common screen magnifiers are either the built-in Windows Magnifier or ZoomText by Freedom Scientific.

   • For Apple, check out Zoom under Apple Accessibility: Vision

4. Video Magnifiers:

   • Also known as CCTVs, Video Magnifiers use a camera and built-in screen. They magnify printed text or objects, enabling users to read, write, and discern details more easily.

   • These can be used for both close distance and far away viewing depending on the model.

   • Note: while they are normally stand alone devices, the iPhone and iPad have a magnifier built-in. You use the iOS’s camera to take a picture and then enlarge or enhance as needed.

5. Optical Character Recognition (OCR):

   • OCR software transforms printed text, pictures of text, and PDFs into digital text.

   • This can then be read by either a screen reader or other application that is specifically designed to recognize the text.

6. GPS Navigation and Wayfinding Apps:

   • These tools offer spoken directions and environmental information, assisting individuals in navigating unfamiliar surroundings with confidence.

   • You can try this yourself if you ever use walking directions on Google Maps by going to Settings > Navigation > Then turning on Detailed voice guidance.

7. Smart Assistants and AI:

   • These include Amazon Alexa, Siri, Google Home, ChatGPT, Seeing AI and Be My Eyes among other apps and assistants.

   • These tools can help users with tasks such as reading text aloud, describing images, identifying objects, and providing other daily assistance such as timers for cooking.

   • Smart assistants can also be used to control smart home devices, such as outlets, TVs, lights, and locks, making it easier to manage homes. 

8. Accessible Educational Materials:

   • Digital textbooks, audiobooks, recordings, and braille versions of educational materials provide equitable learning opportunities for students with visual impairments.

Finding the Right Assistive Technology

The optimal A.T. solutions are tailored to individual needs and preferences. Factors such as the degree of vision loss, age, lifestyle, and specific tasks that require assistance should be considered. Consulting with an assistive technology specialist can be invaluable in identifying and implementing the most suitable tools.

Assistive technology is continually evolving, offering new and innovative solutions to empower individuals with visual impairments. If you or someone you know could benefit from A.T, explore the wide array of available tools and discover how they can unlock independence and enhance daily life.

If you'd like to learn more about assistive technology for the blind and visually impaired or the services we provide, please don't hesitate to contact Kenyon Learning.