Assistive Technologies for the Blind

Assistive technologies are devices or software that assist the accomplishment of tasks by a blind or visually impaired person, usually providing feedback via sound, touch, or optimal use of remaining vision. Technology is only one tool in the rehabilitation process, but for some tasks it can be an important one. This entry describes the range of assistive technologies that are available for the blind.

Technology for Reading, Writing, and Note Taking

For straightforward text, reading machines and optical character recognition software (available in both desktop and handheld units) can scan printed material and read it aloud in artificial (“synthetic”) speech. Audio recordings from the National Library Service and other sources provide access to many publications. These “talking books” are now available on CDs and other digital ...

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