Computing and low vision - screen access

A standard computer, by default, offers a medium display. In Windows settings this can be changed to a higher text setting and the colour, contrast and brightness can be changed to suit individual preferences. However for more severe vision impairment, the user will require extra software support.

Magnification Software
In order to find the screen easier to read there are a variety of magnification software packages available to use in window applications. They work in different ways – the entry market versions work like an actual onscreen magnifying glass – the user just moves the magnifying window over the area to be magnified and text and images are magnified. These are particular good for minor vision impairments where a support package is required for occasional use. Windows itself provides some basic accessibility options designed to assist vision impaired users. Magnifying menu icons works quite well but there can be major problems with internet usage. For these users a more advanced product is required.

At the higher end of the market are magnification packages which will not only magnify everything on the screen but will allow the user to change all screen settings, colours and text sizes over a huge range. The software works equally well for web and email. Most of these products include screen readers so that all text can be read back to the user.