Losing your sight or becoming visually impaired can feel like a storm crashing into your life, flipping everything upside down. It is natural to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and even scared. However, the good news is that you don’t have to face this journey alone and that there are tools that can make your life, not only manageable, but incredibly fulfilling. One of the most powerful tools? Your computer. Learning how to use a computer is not just a practical skill; it is a ticket to independence, connection, and opportunities. Let us explore why computer training is so important and how it can transform your adjustment to blindness journey.
Computers: More Than Just Machines
Think of a computer as a Swiss Army knife. It is not just one thing; it is a tool for many different tasks. From sending emails to shopping online, paying bills, and even pursuing hobbies, computers can do it all. For someone who is blind or visually impaired, a computer becomes even more powerful. With the help of screen readers, magnification software, and voice recognition tools, your computer can speak to you, zoom in on text, or even respond to your voice, making information accessible.
Imagine this: Sarah, who recently lost her sight, was worried she would lose touch with her family spread across the country. She used to communicate with them through various methods via the computer. She was petrified that she could no longer use the computer and talk to her family as she could not see anymore. With computer training, she learned to use email and video calls. Now, she chats with her grandchildren every week and even joins online book clubs. Her computer helped her stay connected and feel less isolated.
Benefits of Computer Training
The benefits of computer training for individuals with vision loss are many and go far beyond just learning technical skills.
Increased Independence
One of the toughest parts of adjusting to blindness is feeling like you’ve lost your independence. Simple tasks like reading the mail, checking the weather, or finding a recipe can feel impossible. That in turn means you have to resort to relying on others who will only help you if and when they are able to do so. For people who are independent by nature and used to conducting business discretely, this situation is a nightmare. That is where computers come in. With training, you will be able to do tasks on your own, from paying bills to scheduling appointments.
There are websites and apps for almost everything: emailing, news, grocery delivery, banking, and even ordering a pizza. Want to know your bank account balance? No need to ask someone to get into your business. Simply jump on your computer and check your balance online all on your own. By learning how to use these tools, you can take charge of your daily life without relying on others. Screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver read text aloud, while screen magnifiers make text and images larger and easier to see. These tools ensure you know exactly what’s happening on the screen.
Computers as Essential Reading and Writing Tools
Another incredibly devastating issue when an individual loses their vision is the loss of the capacity to read and a severe reduction in access to information. The postman just dropped off the mail but who sent this letter? What does the letter say? Oh my gosh, how am I going to read my favourite novel or article? Using a computer, with the help of a screen reader and perhaps a braille display, you could minimize all those problems. Your letters from family and friends as well as your bills could come to you through email instead. Then, of course, you would be able to read them easily by way of your computer. As for reading books, there are a myriad of ways to get reading material online. For example, Accessible digital libraries, such as Bookshare or Project Gutenberg, provide thousands of books at your fingertips, ensuring that the joy and necessity of reading is never out of reach.
Then there is the challenge of writing. It was commonplace for you to grab a pen and put your ideas down on paper. That is no more. Well, make your computer your pen and paper. Writing tools like word processors and speech-to-text software enable users to create everything from personal notes to professional reports. You would regain the ability to express yourself through writing.
For individuals who are blind or visually impaired, computers are indispensable for both reading and writing. They eliminate barriers to literacy and productivity. By mastering the computer and its tools, you can stay informed, express your ideas, and connect with the written word like never before.
Staying Connected in a Digital World
The world is more connected than ever, thanks to technology. Social media, email, and video calls make it easy to stay in touch with friends and family. For people who are blind or visually impaired, these tools are lifelines. They help you stay part of the conversation and maintain relationships, even if you’re not physically together.
Learning to use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram or YouTube can help you share your thoughts, photos, updates and knowledge. You can join groups for people with similar interests or connect with others in the blind and visually impaired community. It is a great way to find support, share experiences, and even make new friends.
Opening Doors to Education and Work
Education and employment are two areas where computers play a huge role. With the right training, you can access online courses, write essays, or even prepare for a new career. Assistive technology levels the playing field, allowing you to compete with sighted peers. With your computer skills, going to college or university is a no brainer.
For job seekers, knowing how to use a computer is often a must. Many employers expect candidates to have basic computer skills, and some roles require advanced knowledge. Of course, we know that persons with disabilities face significant difficulties when seeking employment. So, it means that it is paramount for a person experiencing vision challenges to get their computer skills up, that is the only way they would stand a chance in the job market. In addition to that, there are many ways people can earn online nowadays, but you would have to have the computer skills to take advantage of these prospects. By investing in computer training, you are opening doors to opportunities that might otherwise seem out of reach. Programs like screen readers, magnification tools, and voice recognition software make it possible to perform tasks efficiently and professionally.
Exploring Your Hobbies and Passions
Do you love music, writing, or photography? Computers can help you dive deeper into your hobbies. With accessible software, you can compose music, write stories, or even edit photos. Many blind and visually impaired people have used technology to explore creative pursuits, start blogs, or even launch their own businesses.
For instance, Maria always loved baking but struggled to organize her recipes after losing her sight. With her computer, she created a digital recipe book using accessible software. Now, she runs a small baking business and shares her creations with the world.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Problem-Solving Skills
Learning to use a computer when you’re blind or visually impaired can be challenging at first, but every challenge you overcome builds your problem-solving skills. These skills extend beyond the computer, helping you tackle other areas of life with confidence.
For example, navigating a website that isn’t screen-reader friendly teaches you persistence and creativity. You might find workarounds or discover new tools that make tasks easier. These problem-solving experiences remind you that you’re capable of adapting to anything life throws your way.
What Research Shows
We just gave a whole lot of reasons why computer training is essential for persons with vision loss. You do not think we made those reasons up, do you? Believe it, we did not make them up. According to a study hosted on the US National Institutes of Health’s National Library of Medicine, technology training improves the quality of life of persons who are blind and visually impaired. The study was conducted with 50 blind and visually impaired persons in India to evaluate the impact of special software training in computer and smartphone apps on the lives of individuals with vision loss. They found that there were significant and highly significant improvements in several aspects of their lives after the training. Computer training is no flailing thing, its potential power for persons experiencing vision loss is real!
Where to Start
Ready to begin your computer training journey? You are in the right place! Blind Accessibility Tips is set up with exactly you in mind. You can check out all the lessons and resources that are on the website. The American Foundation for the Blind tells us that a 2012 study indicated that only 43% of students with vision loss in the US use the Internet, compared with 95% of students without disabilities. They say that this is due to lack of awareness, availability, and training opportunities. We are trying to bridge that gap. Check out our lessons or contact us for lessons.
It is okay to take things one step at a time. Start with the basics, like learning to navigate your computer or using email. As you grow more comfortable, you can explore advanced tools and techniques. The key is to stay curious and keep practicing.
Do Not Let Fear Hold You Back
It is normal to feel nervous about learning something new, but do not let fear hold you back. With a little effort and patience, you can master the skills you need to use a computer effectively. Joining support groups or connecting with other visually impaired computer users can also provide encouragement and inspiration.
Conclusion
Computer training is an invaluable investment for anyone who is blind or visually impaired. By learning how to use a computer, you can open up a world of possibilities and live a more independent and fulfilling life. Whether it’s staying connected with loved ones, pursuing education, finding a job, or exploring hobbies, the skills you gain will empower you to thrive.
So what are you waiting for? Take that first step today; start browsing the lessons we have on our website or YouTube channel. The world is at your fingertips, and with the right training, there’s nothing you cannot achieve.
