Accessibility
One of the downsides to being a senior is that things like hearing, sight and touch get less effective.
Most computing devices provide adjustments to assist with these losses.
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Image: Global Reach

Pertinent Points

Listed below are some basic steps to start customising your device to better suit your needs.
None of the changes are permanent so you can try them and then go back to the original if you don't like the change.

The changes can include:

  • increase the size of text - to make the screen easier to read
  • change the contrast of the screen - to make the screen easier to read
  • make the device speak the text on the screen - to assist with vision difficulties
  • change the touch screen sensitivity - to make it easier to operate the device
  • change the function of buttons - to make frequent actions easier to use
  • change cursor size and colour - on computers, make it easier to locate the cursor on screen
  • change the click sensitivity of a mouse - to make mouse functions easier to use

For touch screen devices, consider the use of a touch screen pen.
This can help to press buttons on small screens if you have hand tremor or arthritis.
The pens have a soft tip and basic types are available at low cost.

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Get the Details

The types of changes are slightly different for computers and mobile devices.
Make sure that you adjust settings to best suit how you use each device.
The computer has many more adjustments available but there are also options for additional software available for significant disabilities.
Consider contacting organisations such as Vision Australia if you need particular assistance with your device.

Smartphones

Tap the Settings app
Scroll until you find (Android) Accessibility or (iPhone) General then scroll to Accessibility
Tap the Accessibility option to see a range of settings
Experiment with these to get the best settings for your needs

(these steps are similar to those shown below for an Android tablet)

Tablets/iPads

Tap the Settings app. (example shown on an Android tablet screen)

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Scroll until you find (Android) Accessibility or (iPad) tap General then scroll to Accessibility

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Tap the Accessibility option to see a range of settings
Experiment with these to get the best settings for your needs

Windows 10 computer

Note: The settings below will help to improve such things as sight or hearing difficulties but for significant disabilities there are special computer applications to provide appropriate assistance.

In Windows 10, open the Settings window
Find the Ease of Access option and click on it.

There are a range of options to try.
Experiment with these to get the best settings for your needs.
There are ease of access options on other versions of Windows.

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You can:

  • change the display brightness
  • adjust the cursor (the pointer) size and colour
  • add a magnifier as needed
  • adjust colour to help vision problems
  • adjust the contrast
  • use narrator to speak text and controls
  • change audio settings
  • use closed captions
  • use dictation to type
  • adjust the keyboard function
  • use arrow keys to move the mouse pointer
  • use an eye tracking device (if fitted to the computer)

Apple computers vary a little.
Click here to get more information

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