Facing new technologies can be daunting, especially for those experiencing vision loss. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your digital devices.
For those experiencing vision loss, navigating technology can be challenging. However, technology can make life easier for everyone, whether it’s through chatting with family and friends, using maps to get around, or doing everyday tasks like online banking. Fortunately, there are ways to make technology more accessible, from changing display settings on your phone to using smart home devices, enabling individuals experiencing vision loss to step into the digital age with confidence.
Here are some tips on how to use the accessibility features on your devices
Customising your display settings is a great way to tailor your phone’s display to your specific needs. In the settings option (usually displayed as a cog wheel) on your device, there are options to make the font size bigger, increase colour contrast, and change colour settings such as switching your device to dark mode which may be useful for those who are sensitive to light.
Using the magnification/zoom features on your device can make it easier to see your screen. On the accessibility part of your settings, you can turn on the magnification or zoom features to be able to magnify your screen more readily, as well as magnifying your text when you’re typing.
Audio description features like TalkBack on Android devices and VoiceOver on Apple devices offer useful support for those with low vision. These audio description features, readily available in the settings of your smartphone, provide speech for items displayed on the screen.
Using voice assistant software like Siri, Bixby, or Google Assistant on your Android or iPhone can serve as a convenient means to manage your device effortlessly. With voice assistants, you can execute various tasks through voice commands, such as asking them to play music, checking weather updates, or opening specific apps.
Making the most out of your smart home devices
For individuals with vision loss, smart home devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home can be invaluable tools. These devices offer a range of features accessible through voice commands, making daily tasks more manageable. From getting news updates and reminders for appointments to checking weather forecasts and public transport schedules, these assistants can provide essential information audibly. They also offer entertainment options like playing music, listening to audiobooks from platforms like Audible and Spotify, or engaging in interactive games.
Smart speakers can also integrate with other smart home devices, further enhancing accessibility. Smart lightbulbs can adjust lighting levels which could be useful for those sensitive to light and glare. Smart thermostats can help you to control the temperature around your home, and smart plugs allow for the voice-activated operation of individual objects such as lamps. Using these smart technologies within the home can allow you to optimise your living space to best work for your specific needs.
Where to get help with using technology
Navigating technology with vision loss may be challenging. Our free digital skills program Get Online, Get Connected can help you to discover new features on your phone or computer and become more confident using technology. You could learn more about accessibility features, staying safe online, or just how to make it easier to do everyday tasks like online banking or chatting with friends and family. The training modules available not only cover all the basics to help you gain more confidence, but they also cater for those who feel more confident and want to use technology more broadly, such as setting up “the cloud“ (remote virtual technology storage space) to keep all your photos.
A low vision assessment can help you to learn more about low vision aids and using low vision specific technology to best suit your needs.
Check out this short online lesson about how to make your iPhone more accessible.
For more information
- Learn more about our digital skills program, Get Online, Get Connected.
- Always speak to your GP and eye care professional about the best treatment options for you.
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