Bridging Disability Inclusion Gaps Using Assistive Technology
One of the most common requests I get for blog posts is to write more about AT, or assistive technology, as we like to call it in the disability community. It would be a massive understatement to say that AT is not a central pillar that allows disabled people to live and thrive with independence and dignity. Indeed, as assistive technology evolves and improves, it continues to help reshape the landscape of disability rights and inclusion. In a world where technology touches almost every aspect of our lives, ensuring that these tools are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities, is crucial.
In today’s post I want to explore the importance of assistive technology and highlight some groundbreaking devices that are making a difference in the lives of disabled individuals. But before I go any further, let’s first define what assistive technology is.
Assistive (accessible) technology refers to any device, software, or system that is designed to be usable by individuals with disabilities.
Some common examples of AT include screen readers for people with visual impairments, tactile keyboards for individuals with limited dexterity, or alternative communication devices for those who cannot speak.
Sometimes assistive technology can be incorporated into devices that are not themselves specifically made for disabled people. Today’s cell phones, for example, are manufactured for the mass market, but they have features of their operating systems such as voice commands, magnification options, and other adjustable settings that can make them more accessible for a disabled user.
Bridging Gaps with ASSISTIVE and ACCESSIBLE Technology
In today’s computer-focused world, it is important for the disability community and our allies to continue to advocate for inclusion in technological advancements. Our ability to continue to participate in traditionally non-disabled and ableist spaces depends on it. Thankfully, in part due to federal access laws, but also companies like Apple, Samsung and Google, recognizing the importance and value of inclusion, innovations in both software and hardware development are continuing to occur. These innovations are helping to transform disabled people’s lives in school, work and at home. The following are just a few examples of the latest innovations:
Voice-Activated Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home have become invaluable for individuals with mobility or visual impairments. By allowing users to control their environment, access information, and communicate with others through simple voice commands, these assistants significantly enhance independence.
Screen Readers and Magnification Software: For those with visual impairments, screen readers and magnification software are essential for accessing digital content. Tools like JAWS (Job Access With Speech) and ZoomText magnify text and images on screens, while converting digital text into speech or Braille, making the digital world more navigable.
Adaptive Keyboards and Mice: Ergonomic designs and customizable options in keyboards and mice can greatly assist individuals with motor impairments. Features like keyguard covers, trackball mice, and one-handed keyboards enable easier interaction with computers and devices.
Wearable Technology: Wearables like the Apple Watch have features designed for deaf and hard-of-hearing users, such as flashing alerts and haptic feedback for notifications. Other wearables are equipped with GPS tracking and emergency signaling for individuals with cognitive disabilities or dementia.
Mobile Apps for Communication: Apps like Ava and RogerVoice provide real-time captioning for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, making conversations more accessible. Meanwhile, communication apps designed for non-verbal individuals, such as Proloquo2Go, transform tablets and smartphones into powerful AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices.
Smart Home Technology: Smart home devices offer unprecedented control over one's living environment, with features like voice-controlled lights, thermostats, and door locks. These technologies can drastically increase the independence of individuals with a wide range of disabilities.
One final thought. Technology will continue to evolve. Improvements will be made to products over time, including those that I have listed above. It is important that even as we use and embrace these technologies, that the disability community continue to advocate for accessibility from the beginning— even in BETA— as the computer nerds like to say. Accessible technology and assistive devices are not merely conveniences; they are essential tools that empower individuals with disabilities to lead fuller, more independent lives.
NOTE: This blog post is for information only. It is not an endorsement of any of the products mentioned. I have not been sponsored for including them.