Can Visually Impaired Individuals Use Tablets Instead of Braille Books?

Visually impaired individuals often have unique reading needs that require careful consideration. While braille remains a traditional method for reading, modern technology presents alternative solutions such as tablets. The feasibility of using tablets instead of braille books depends on the level of visual impairment and individual preferences.

Understanding Visual Impairment

The term 'visually impaired' refers to a range of conditions that affect an individual's ability to process visual information. Visual impairment can vary from mild to severe and can range from a deterioration of vision to complete blindness. Advanced technology and accessibility features have made it possible for visually impaired individuals to read and engage with digital content on tablets.

Using Tablets for Reading

For some visually impaired individuals, tablets offer an accessible and convenient method of reading. Adaptive technologies, such as text-to-speech functions and screen magnification, can be utilized to make tablet reading a viable option. For instance, individuals with moderate vision loss, like myself, can read large-print books and magazines via an iPad or Kindle. These devices can be set to display text in a larger font size, reducing the need for excessive close-up viewing.

Personal Experiences

My mother, with gradually deteriorating eyesight, initially used larger text settings on her iPad and Kindle for several years. As her vision worsened, she relied more on devices that allowed her to enlarge the text further. Eventually, when she could no longer decipher text regardless of its size, she resorted to audiobooks. This experience underscores the importance of exploring different options as visual impairment progresses.

Challenges with Tablets

Despite the benefits, tablets have limitations. There are websites and applications that may not be fully accessible, as evidenced by my difficulty using certain sites with accessibility features enabled. Additionally, some educational materials may not be as accessible on a tablet as they are in braille, especially for technical content that benefits from tactile feedback.

Accessibility Features and Options

Many tablets, such as the iPad, offer a range of accessibility features. These include:

Screen Magnification: Adjusts the display to show more of the screen at a time, useful for those with low vision. Text-to-Speech: Reads out text on the screen, beneficial for those with difficulty reading printed text. Voice Commands: Allows users to perform tasks using voice commands, enhancing accessibility for individuals with various levels of motor control. Proximity Sensor: Helps users position the device closer to their face without causing strain.

Comparison: Tablets vs. Braille Books

Audiobooks can be a useful alternative to braille books, especially for individuals who struggle with tactile reading. However, tablets and audiobooks cannot entirely replace the educational benefits of braille. Braille provides a tactile experience that helps individuals develop fine motor skills and allows for more interactive reading. For educational and research purposes, braille is often superior due to its ability to convey complex and detailed information through touch.

Conclusion

The choice between using braille books and tablets for reading depends on individual needs and preferences. Visually impaired individuals should evaluate the accessibility features of tablets, such as text-to-speech and screen magnification, to determine if they can make tablets a viable reading option. For those who cannot read braille or prefer alternative methods due to finger sensation issues, tablets and audiobooks can be excellent alternatives. However, for in-depth reading and educational purposes, braille remains a valuable and indispensable tool.

It is important for technology to continue advancing and accommodating the diverse needs of visually impaired individuals, ensuring that everyone has access to the information they need in a way that suits their unique requirements.