You often hear about accessibility as it relates to airplanes, bathrooms and hotels, but what about the Internet? Can the Internet be accessible? The answer is yes! According to author Debbie Marsh, "You'll find a variety of disability software, all of it free, which allows users to hear text on their computer. Some of it was created specifically to work with Firefox, another requires Windows, but all of it designed to make your life easier."
In fact, Disaboom came up with a list of the best free, open source web browsers for seniors as well as text-to-speech converters for people with disabilities that many might find helpful. Check out which browsers made the cut:
1. WebbIE
With a proven track record since 2001 and world-wide use, WebbIE comes with a suite of accessible programs. You can hear news and audio on the internet, enabling you to listen to podcasts, access RSS and more with your screen reader.
2. EdWeb
It may take a little extra effort to get EdWeb set up just how you like, but you'll be glad you took the time! There's a comprehensive manual to help you download full symbol support and text-to-speech (tts)/talking buttons.
Choose to access it with a mouse, touch screen, mouse emulator, Grid Editor (another free download), or switch scanning. This disability software operates on Windows 98-XP and later. Combine it with the free EdWord symbol/talking word processor and link your symbol set or create grids.
3. Fire Vox
Featuring a mouse-driven interface, this extension for the Firefox web browser is like a screen reader with more than the usual basic features. Sure, Fire Vox identifies headings, links, and images for navigational assistance, but it also supports MathML and the CSS speech module. Better yet, it works on Windows, Macintosh and Linux.
Fire Vox is one component of the Core Library Components for Text-To-Speech. The suite is comprised of three extensions, including Fire Vox, a core library for test-to-speech synthesis, and a utilities library for navigating the HTML DOM.
4. CliCk, Speak
Unlike its cousin Fire Vox, above, which was designed with blind and visually impaired users in mind, CLiCk, Speak caters to sighted users who want text-to-speech capability. It neither identifies elements nor informs you of events, two functions essential to visually impaired users but merely irritating to sighted users.
If you are sighted but have cognitive disabilities (dyslexia, MS, etc.) that are mitigated by listening to, rather than reading, web content, then CLiCk, Speak is the extension for you. The system features an easy, mouse-driven interface that is a snap for users accustomed to point-and-click graphic interfaces. Like Fire Vox, it also works on Windows, Macintosh and Linux. Additionally, CLiCk, Speak's multilingual support makes it ideal for practicing a foreign language.
5. Orca
The Orca browser is fast, friendly and ready to help: more like a greyhound than a killer whale! The browser itself features security, low memory consumption, a spell-checker, built-in download manager and more, but it also trumpets an AD blocker, flash blocker, online profile storage, automated form filler, and an RSS reader.
With a username and password, the above features let users access information such as personal bookmarks, autofills and RSS feed remotely from any computer.
6. Simply Web 2000
If you prefer using Internet Explorer and want a speech-friendly, speech-enabled accessible browser with easy navigation for visually impaired users, then check out Simply Web 2000. The software-based speech synthesizer included in the package can be used as a talking web browser in standalone mode.
7. SpeakOn
A single keystroke will get you downloads of media on demand for audio and text alike, whether you're working in Media Centre, Radio Time or VI Services applications. Plus, it implements with Seeing Ear library books and eText, as well as TNAUK publications, which can be converted automatically to HTML format to use with your cell or an external player.
8. Thunder
This award-winning screen reader hails from across the pond, and the Brits have done a nice job. With features suited for people who are blind and visually impaired, Thunder can become your radio, library and mailbox. One fan even claims her talking computer is now her best friend! And what's really cool if you secretly have monarch envy? HRH the Duke of York is a patron.
Have you used these browsers? What do you think? Do you use a browser that isn't listed that you find to be extremely accessible? Weigh in now!
A recent study, reported on by TechXav, indicated that spending time on the Internet can help slow the effects of dementia by boosting the brain activity of the elderly. Using brain scans, a team at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) found that using the Internet stimulated the mind more strongly than reading, with effects that continued long after an Internet session had ended.
So what was going on here? For seniors who did not usually surf the Web, the use of the Internet was found to change brain activity patterns and enhance function. We all know that the Internet can be a helpful resource, but that there are mental benefits is such a compelling finding. So what else can the Internet and modern technology do for the aging population?
- Blogtastic goodness. Socializing is so important as we grow older. So much, in fact, that some studies have even indicated that there is a direct correlation between strong social ties and lifespan. Blogging and social media tools like Facebook are helping seniors to connect with others and express themselves from the comfort of their own home.
- "Visiting" loved ones (without the travel). Technology is making the world smaller by the day, making keeping in touch with family and friends who live far away simple. Tools like Skype and webcams are helping to bring people together from afar through video, while photo sharing sites like Facebook and Flickr have the same effect but with photos.
- Accessible fitness. Put down those dumbells, folks - with the advent of tools like Wii, technology has made personal fitness more accessible and, quite frankly, more fun and engaging.
- Virtual insanity... but in a good way. Talking walking frames, robopets and interactive coffee tables are some of the technologies that could keep older people living at home for longer. Some of these may seem strange now, but think about it: years ago, did you ever imagine seniors using video games for fitness and blogging on the Internet?
There are so many ways that technology is helping seniors to live healthy, social lives and remain independent longer. Are we missing something that you or someone you know is using? Share your stories!