The nonprofit blog Blue Avocado recently ran a story entitled “Six Easy, Nearly-Free Ways to Be More Disabled-Accessible.” (http://www.blueavocado.org/node/593)
At the end of this post, it offered a “bonus” section on free and low-cost software solutions to create accessibility for workers or constituents. This is valuable information worth repeating (note: we have added the first three links for your convenience):
“Search on "free assistive technology" or a variation on that theme to find many options in just about every software category. http://www.google.com/search?sclient=psy&hl=en&site=&source=hp&q=free+assistive+technology
Windows, Mac and other operating systems have built-in features that increase access for people with vision, hearing, and mobility impairments. Examples include: screen enlargement, cursor enlargement, flashing signals, and text-to-speech. Learn to use them. http://www.microsoft.com/enable/ and http://www.apple.com/accessibility/
- Access on Main Street: Covers a wide range of mainstream products that make life easier for an elder or a person with a disability. It is well organized and can be searched by disability; function (work, education, entertainment, etc), technology (hardware, software, wireless, etc.) and more. http://www.accessonmainstreet.net/
- BrowseAloud: A software that reads websites out loud and highlights words as they are read, useful for people with dyslexia or related learning disorders. Temporary free trials available, but there is a fee for ongoing use. http://www.browsealoud.com/page.asp?pg_id=80094
- iZoom: Offers a screen magnifier and reading software for the visually impaired. Prices range from $19.95 per month subscriptions to $459+ flat rate. http://www.issist1.com/
- e-Bility.com: This website has compiled links to numerous disability software resources and services. http://www.ebility.com/links/software.php
- And a book: Access Aware: a comprehensive (but a little outdated) guide to community organizations on facilities, technology, and different disabilities. http://www.ataccess.org/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=1&category_id=1&option=
com_virtuemart&Itemid=6&vmcchk=1&Itemid=6”