![]() ![]() When you have a stroke your brain becomes damaged and this might be why you have vision problems. See our free factsheet on Controlling the computer with your voicefor more detailed information. These are further opening up the world of productive possibilities for everyone who struggles to use more traditional computer technology. ![]() However, quite powerful speech recognition programmes are now built into new computers, tablets, smartphones and smart speakers.Īdvances in ‘natural voice’ technology and artificial intelligence have also seen the continuing development of ‘virtual personal assistants’ like Siri (for Apple devices), Alexa (for Amazon Echo devices) Google Assistant (for Android devices) and Cortana (for Microsoft devices). Some operations require specialist voice recognition software – for example, like Dragon NaturallySpeaking (for Windows) or Dragon Dictate (for Mac). search the internet and browse individual websites.make calendar appointments and programme reminders.open and run different software and apps.Using simple spoken commands, you can now quite easily: Voice controlĬontinuing advances in technology are enabling growing numbers of people to use voice control to operate their computer, tablet, smartphone or smart speaker. The factsheet also gives contact details for several specialist suppliers of assistive technology. External switches, for example, can be operated in a variety of ways by using different parts of the body or a mouth tube. Our factsheet on Keyboard and mouse alternatives and adaptationsalso provides information on alternative ways of clicking. Using head (or eye) movement to control the pointer, together with an on-screen keyboard, can also be an effective solution if you have very little or no use of your hands. a touchpad – like those often found on laptops.a joystick – with buttons for left, right and double clicks.a trackball mouse – to reduce wrist movement. ![]() a bar mouse – to eliminate the need to reach sideways.an ergonomic or vertical mouse – to relieve strain on the hand and wrist.It is important to choose one that feels comfortable and easy to use. If you do need a different type of mouse, there are many alternatives. using ‘drag lock’ – to make it easier to cut/copy and paste text or pictures.adjusting how the mouse works – including its speed and how the click buttons operate.However, for some people, it may be sufficient to adapt the way you use it, including by: typing without a keyboard – for example, by using an on-screen keyboard or your voice.Ī standard computer mouse can be difficult to use if you have motor problems.customisable adaptive keyboards – for example, like the Helpikeys.chording keyboards – like the Cykey, which work well for one-handed users with independent movement in their fingers.keyboards with a smaller number of larger keys – like the BigKeys LX.Possible alternatives to the standard computer keyboard that might better suit someone experiencing more substantial motor difficulties include: using mounting equipment – to raise up or tilt a keyboard (or tablet), or to attach it to a wheelchair (or something similar).using a keyguard over your keyboard – to make it impossible to press two keys at once.modifying the keyboard’s response – for example, by using ‘StickyKeys’ which allows you to input any command by pressing only one key at a time.There are a number of ways you can do this, including by: You can use My Computer My Way for free at Keyboard adaptations and alternativesįor some users, adapting your existing keyboard may be all that is necessary to enable you to continue to use it successfully. It is an interactive tool developed by AbilityNet that makes any computer, tablet and smartphone easier to use. This gives easy-to-follow instructions on how to adapt your computing equipment to meet your particular needs. These options are covered in more detail in our free factsheet on Keyboard and mouse alternatives and adaptations.įurther advice is also available at My Computer My Way. Practical alternatives to using standard input devices are summarised below. Such problems can prevent you from being able to use ‘normal’ computing equipment, especially if it has not been properly adapted to match your needs. spasticity – this makes it more difficult to move your arms and legs because your muscles have become very stiff and tight.Other physical effects of stroke can include: It is quite common for muscle weakness to affect a whole side of your body, or you may only have it in just one arm or leg. This affects how well you can move different parts of your body. Most people will have weakness in their muscles after a stroke. Making computers and tablets easier to use Physical problems after a stroke Augmentative and alternative communicationġ. Making computers and tablets easier to use ![]()
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