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High Tech and Low Tech Options for Computer Modifications for Visual Impairments

Kim Furphy, D.HSc., OT, ATP

January 15, 2014

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Question

What are some high tech and low tech computer modifications for visual impairments?

 

Answer

There are many high tech and low tech computer modifications for visual impairments. 

• High Technology Computer Modifications

– Screen Magnification software to enlarge characters on the screen

– Screen Reader software to read what is happening on the screen

– Text to speech software to allow the individual to read documents

– Braille output devices to allow those who are blind to read what they are typing

• Low Technology Computer Modifications

– Adjust font size

– Adjust contrast levels

– Changing cursors 

– Adding glare filters

– Adding external screen magnifiers


kim furphy

Kim Furphy, D.HSc., OT, ATP

Kimberly A. Furphy was granted a Doctor of Health Science Degree with concentrations in Assistive Technology and Gerontology at the University of St. Augustine for the Health Sciences, a Master of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy from Temple University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Virginia.  She is also a certified Assistive Technology Practitioner by the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. Her clinical and research interests include assistive technology applications in the treatment and education of individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities as well as pedagogical innovations for professionals working in the field of assistive technology.  She has worked as an Assistant/Associate Professor and is the current Program Director in the MSOT program at the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey teaching courses in assessment and treatment of the adult and geriatric populations, upper extremity rehabilitation and splinting, as well as assistive technology interventions. She has numerous presentations at the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Annual Conference and at the New Jersey Occupational Therapy Association’s Annual Conference on the topics of assistive technology and home modification and is a frequently invited lecturer at local schools and facilities on these topics. Dr. Furphy is also the author of the chapter on assessment tools for Activities of Daily Living in the book Occupational Therapy Assessment Tools: An Annotated Index, 3rd Edition. 


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