Assistive/access technology
Definition: Assistive or access technology is any additional software or hardware that is required by someone, because of a disability, to enable them to use a computer. The two most common types of assistive technology for people with sight loss are screen magnification and screen reading software. It is also known as access or adaptive technology.
Category: technology
Credit: RNIB
Source:
http://www.rnib.org.uk/livingwithsightloss/computersphones/pages/glossary.aspx
Services mentioning Assistive/access technology
A gateway to RSBC services in Wales: Employment; Assistive
Technology; Family Support; Information and
Advice; Activities. In partnership with North Wales Society for the Blind, Vision Support, Wales Council of the Blind, Council for Wales of Voluntary Youth Services Council, Boys and Girls
Clubs of Wales.
Guide Dogs believes the right assistive
technology – sometimes called ‘access’ or ‘adaptive’ technology – can help your
child learn and
play, just like everyone else. That’s why they've helped children and
young people access a world of technology designed to suit their
vision impairment.
Bierly products help people with partial sight to magnify text and be able to enjoy reading and regain their independence. The products are innovative but simple. They have been designed specifically for people with partial sight, poor coordination, dexterity issues and anyone who may find modern
technology challenging.
Our IT service provides
advice, one-to-one
training, short term equipment loan, and some financial support towards purchasing equipment. The service is completely free and we do not sell equipment, we just advise and support. Try before you buy: if you want to try before you buy, we can offer the loan of phones and tablets for 2 weeks. This would help you decide on the type of
technology that meets your requirements and skills. We have an iPad and iPhone as well as an
Android Synapptic tablet and phone.
Our
technology support service teaches you to make the most of technology to help you be as independent as possible. From magnification to
voice recognition, we can show you how to make the most of the gadgets you’ve already got or how to use specialist accessibility software.
Vision Support provide digital
training whether you are a complete beginner and want to know about the
technology available or you have a device and you want to make it more accessible/learn how to use the accessibility features. We are able to come to your home and provide one-to-one training. We provide support throughout North-East Wales.
Dolphin assistive
technology products are designed to improve accessibility and independence on computers, for people with a wide range of
vision impairments. This includes
screen readers for people who are blind, and magnification and audio products for people who have partial sight and low vision.
A
grant to empower and enable future generations of people who are blind and partially sighted to reach their goals and fulfil their aspirations whatever they may be. Applicants in receipt of means-tested benefits will be given priority. They are happy to consider applications for specialist software, equipment and specialist
training in the use of access
technology.
Our
technology service enables individuals to become more independent and access information, and includes specialist
training advice and guidance from an experienced tutor who will work with you through a program of individual learning aims to help you reach your personal goals. We can advise on appropriate technology or software including: accessibility options; magnification and speech software; tablet devices including the iPad and Kindle.
If you want to feel empowered and knowledgeable about the world of
technology, then join our Accessible Technology sessions. Our Senior Accessibility
Advisor Alex can provide support with using a wide range of devices such as
smart phones, computers, tablets,
braille readers and much more. They can also offer support in how everyday devices can be used to support blind and partially sighted people in areas including
travel, finances, wellbeing and fitness, independent living and school. You can arrange a personal session online with Alex, designed just for you, or you and your family.
We also run a range of group workshops online. All sessions last between 1 and 1.5 hours and can be arranged at a date and time of your convenience.
Come and join Alys every fortnight at the wonderful Sight Life Centre, Cardiff, CF10 1BR. Sessions aim to develop confidence, vocal and self-
advocacy skills whilst making friends and having fun. There are also opportunities to access our recording studio space there, to make podcasts, radio content, or simply engage with the stimulating possibilities offered by
music and sound
technology. 18+ years old. Bi-weekly on a Wednesday 11:30am-2:15pm at Sight Life Centre, Jones Court, Womanby Street, Cardiff.
RNIB's
Technology for Life team can give you information and support with: Making the best use of your
smartphone or tablet; using accessibility software such as
screen readers or magnifiers; understanding the specifications of products; discovering new products that could be useful to you; troubleshooting and problem solving. The Technology Support volunteers provide one to one support at home for people with sight loss.
Grants available.
TAVIP's
Technology for Work
Training Course offers members up to 5 hours of free one-to-one training to help them gain the IT skills needed in the work place so that, with other pre-employment support, they are ready to make the step into paid work.
Our Digital Inclusion Officers are able to support you in your own home with computers, tablets and other assistive
technology.
UCAN run a regular Friday evening drama/
music/social workshop in the Cardiff School of
Optometry building. This is attended by UCAN members, their friends and family, and also volunteers who work with UCAN. Trainers Alex and Alys, and our Peer Engagement Officer Hannah, deliver all sorts of activities relating to drama games, acting, music recording and sound
technology, Arts Awards and also the chance to relax and have fun with friends in a safe environment. School of Optometry and Vision Science, Cardiff University, Maindy Rd, Cardiff. Every Friday 5:30pm-7:30pm.
Audits of your current access provision for blind and partially sighted visitors (visitor experience, online and programmed events); audience
advocacy sessions (reaching and growing your blind and partially sighted audiences); inclusive design workshops;
advice on digital
technology solutions.
We combine the skills of our extensively trained transcribers with the latest advancements in
technology, data security and print production to deliver a highly responsive, reliable and secure transcription service for blue-chip companies operating in the utility, financial, telecoms and public sectors.
Macular Society's Connect by Tech service offers one-to-one telephone support with the
technology you are using around your home. Make the most of you
smart phones, tablets, laptops and computers, smart speakers, and other technology. Help with setting up Alexa, using accessibility features on devices, help with video calls, setting up a computer, Zoom and conference calls and more. Zoom meeting on the fourth Friday of the month 10.30am
Library records mentioning Assistive/access technology
This report highlights how better data collection can improve communication between
optometry practices, GPs, hospitals and local health authorities, leading to more efficient and joined up eye care services. It argues that use of
technology will enable more accurate information to be gathered than is possible using existing, paper-based systems.
The framework presents educational
outcomes within 11 areas: Facilitating an Inclusive World; Sensory Development; Communication; Literacy;
Habilitation: Orientation and Mobility; Habilitation: Independent Living Skills; Accessing information;
Technology; Health: Social, Emotional, Mental and Physical Wellbeing; Social, Sports and Leisure; Preparing for Adulthood.
These Guidelines are written for designers of information and communication
technology (ICT) and provide
advice and recommendations on accessibility issues for all types of
disabilities.
This booklet explains the different formats you can get information in such as large print, audio and
braille. As well as how to use lighting and
technology like magnifiers and
eBooks.
If you have sight loss, and little or no experience with
technology, this guide can help you. You will discover the basics about computers, tablets and
smartphones and how to get online. You’ll also be able to learn about magnifiers and the accessibility features of TVs and radios.