Not all assistive technology for people with mobility impairments is computer-based. The use of common items, such as adhesive Velcro to mount switches or power controls, can provide elegantly simple solutions to computer access barriers. Often, tools of one's own making provide the most effective and comfortable accommodations for mobility impairments.
Speech recognition software converts words spoken into a microphone into machine-readable format. Speech recognition products can provide an appropriate computer input method for some individuals with a wide range of disabilities.
When a person's mobility impairment prevents the use of a standard keyboard or mouse, using a switch may be a possibility. Switches come in a nearly limitless array and can be controlled with nearly any body part. Switches can be activated with a kick, a swipe of the hand, sip and puff by mouth, head movement, an eyeblink, or touch. Even physical closeness can activate a proximity switch. These switches work in concert with a box or an emulator that sends commands for the keyboard and/or mouse to the computer.
With the advent of graphically oriented operating systems, it is vital to have access to a mouse or an alternative pointing device. For those who lack the coordination to use a standard mouse, there are many alternatives to consider. Trackballs are a good first choice; the control surface can be easier to manipulate, and the buttons can be activated without affecting the pointer position. Some trackballs offer additional buttons that add functionality, such as double clicking, click and hold, and other commands and can be programmed to a person's specific needs.
Word prediction programs prompt the user with a list of likely word choices based on words previously typed. Some word prediction software automatically collects new words as they are used and considers a person's common vocabulary when predicting words in the future. Although designed to increase typing speed and accuracy, word prediction in some cases, particularly when short words are involved, can actually decrease typing speed.
The keyboard can be the biggest obstacle to computing for a person with a mobility impairment. Fortunately, those who lack the dexterity or range of motion necessary to operate a standard keyboard have a wide range of options from which to choose. Pointers can be held in the mouth or mounted to a hat or headgear and used to press keys on a standard keyboard. Repositioning the keyboard to the floor can allow someone to use his feet instead of his hands for typing.
An elevator or ramp provides access to spaces when a staircase is insurmountable for someone who uses a wheelchair. Similarly, specialized hardware and software, called assistive or adaptive technology, allows people with mobility impairments to use computers. These tools allow a person with limited, uncontrollable, or no hand or arm movement to successfully perform in educational and job settings. Adaptive technology can allow a person with a mobility impairment to use all of the capabilities of a computer.
Treat people with disabilities with the same respect and consideration with which you treat others. There are no strict rules when it comes to relating to people with disabilities. However, listed below are some helpful hints from the DO-IT Center at the University of Washington. These suggestions can also be found on the DO-IT website at Helpful Communication Hints.
Yes, and there are several options you can choose from.
Individuals with disabilities experience far less career success than their nondisabled peers, especially in challenging careers such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Three factors contribute to the underrepresentation of individuals with disabilities in STEM:
