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Assistive technology examples: Tools that empower access

In a digital world, access is everything. 

But millions of people still face barriers when interacting with digital tools due to physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. This is where assistive technology comes in – a powerful category of tools and devices designed to bridge the gap and empower users of all abilities to engage with content, communicate, and participate fully in digital spaces.

From screen readers and braille displays to speech recognition software and ergonomic keyboards, assistive technologies come in many forms. Some support users with permanent disabilities, while others assist people with temporary or situational limitations, like recovering from surgery or navigating a noisy environment.

As global awareness of digital inclusion grows, so does the importance of understanding how assistive technology works and how it can be integrated into websites, classrooms, workplaces (and beyond). 

In this article, we’ll break down:

  • What assistive technology is and how it benefits users
  • Real-world examples across a range of disabilities
  • Use cases in education and employment
  • Emerging trends to watch
  • How to choose the right tools for your audience or organization

Let’s dive in – and explore how technology can be a force for inclusion.

How assistive technology helps people with disabilities

Assistive technology (AT) is about independence, dignity, and equal opportunity. These tools enable people with disabilities to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible, improving quality of life and opening access to education, employment, and online services.

Empowering independence

Whether it’s a blind person using a screen reader to shop online, or someone with mobility limitations navigating a website via voice control, assistive technology enables users to complete tasks on their own – often without needing additional help.

Enhancing communication

Tools like speech-generating devices (SGDs), real-time captioning, and hearing aids allow people with communication barriers to engage in conversations, both in person and online. This is crucial in educational and workplace settings where clear communication is make or break.

Leveling the playing field

In both education and employment, AT helps make sure that people with disabilities can compete and collaborate on equal footing. For example, students with dyslexia may benefit from text-to-speech software, while an employee with limited dexterity may rely on adaptive keyboards or eye-tracking technology.

Supporting digital access

As more services move online, it’s vital that digital environments accommodate assistive tech – from compatibility with screen readers to customizable text sizes and keyboard-friendly navigation. AT can only be effective if web content and digital tools are designed with inclusion in mind.

Adapting to changing needs

Assistive technology can also support people with temporary injuries, age-related impairments, or situational challenges – such as using captions in a noisy space. In this way, AT benefits a much broader population than many realize.

Examples of assistive technology for visual impairments

People with visual impairments – from low vision to complete blindness – rely on a wide range of tools to interact with digital content. These technologies translate visual information into formats that can be heard, touched, or enlarged.

Screen readers

Screen readers convert on-screen text into synthetic speech or braille output. Popular options include:

Note

Content must be structured with semantic HTML and alt text to work well with screen readers. Basically, poor coding = poor experience.

Braille displays

These devices render text as tactile braille characters. Dynamic refreshable displays allow users to “read” digital content line by line, often working alongside screen readers.

Magnification software

For users with low vision, screen magnifiers (like ZoomText or native tools like Windows Magnifier) enlarge parts of the screen. 

Features often include:

  • Adjustable zoom levels
  • Enhanced contrast settings
  • Cursor enhancements

Text-to-speech tools

While often grouped with screen readers, standalone TTS tools like NaturalReader or Read Aloud browser extensions help users with partial vision or fatigue listen to content at their own pace.

High-contrast and inversion modes

Operating systems and browsers frequently offer display enhancements, such as dark mode or high-contrast color schemes, making text easier to read for users with light sensitivity or reduced contrast perception.

For your digital content to be truly accessible, it must be compatible with these technologies – from ensuring correct label markup to avoiding text baked into images.

Examples of assistive technology for hearing impairments

For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, assistive technology means better access to auditory content – from conversations to multimedia – through visual and tactile alternatives.

Real-time captioning tools

Live captioning converts speech to text on the fly. It’s especially valuable for:

  • Video conferencing (e.g., Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams all offer built-in captions)
  • Live events (via CART services: Communication Access Real-Time Translation)
  • Streaming platforms (like YouTube’s auto-captions or third-party services)

Best practice: Always provide captions for pre-recorded and live content – not just for compliance, but for clarity.

Subtitling and transcription software

Transcripts and subtitles make audio and video content accessible. Tools like Otter.ai, Rev, and Descript help create readable versions of spoken content, useful in both educational and professional settings.

Visual alert systems

Devices like flashing doorbells, visual fire alarms, and vibrating pagers offer non-auditory notifications. On websites, visual cues for sounds (like “ding” when a message is sent) improve the user experience for everyone.

Sign language interpretation technology

Video relay services (VRS) and interpretation apps like InterpreterNow and SignLive connect users with interpreters via video, helping bridge communication gaps in real-time settings.

Hearing aid-compatible technology

Modern hearing aids now integrate with:

  • Bluetooth for direct audio streaming
  • Telecoils for improved sound in public venues
  • Smartphone apps for sound filtering and environmental control

TIP: Audio content on websites should always be accompanied by transcripts or alternative formats. Not all users benefit from amplification – many need a visual version.

Examples of assistive technology for mobility challenges

People with mobility impairments may experience difficulty using standard input devices like keyboards, mice, or touchscreens. Assistive technology helps them interact with digital content in ways that suit their physical abilities.

Alternative input devices

These tools replace or supplement traditional hardware:

  • Mouth sticks and head wands allow users to press keys or touchscreen elements with head or mouth movements.
  • Foot switches and sip-and-puff systems enable interaction using air pressure or foot motion.
  • Joystick mice offer greater control for users with limited dexterity.

These tools are often customized to individual needs, improving both autonomy and speed.

Voice control and speech recognition

Software like Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Apple Voice Control, and Google Assistant lets users navigate, dictate, and interact with devices entirely hands-free. This technology is especially helpful for users with limited or no use of their arms and hands.

TIP: Make sure your website or app is compatible with voice commands and doesn’t require complex gestures to operate.

On-screen keyboards

These allow typing using:

  • A mouse
  • Eye tracking
  • Switch controls

Available on most operating systems, on-screen keyboards are especially useful when paired with pointer tools or gaze tracking.

Switch-access systems

Switches offer simplified interaction by mapping multiple commands to a single button or sequence. 

They can be activated with:

  • Head movements
  • Shoulder taps
  • Blinking (via sensors)

These systems are often used alongside screen readers or scanning software that cycles through options.

Ergonomic and adaptive hardware

Custom setups include:

  • Split keyboards, trackballs, and vertical mice
  • Adjustable desks and mounts for optimal device positioning
  • Touch-free access options using eye gaze technology (like Tobii Dynavox)

Developer tip: Make sure all interactive components (e.g., form fields, buttons) are keyboard-accessible and support focus indicators.

Examples of Text-to-Speech (TTS) tools

Tools like NaturalReader, Kurzweil 3000, and Read&Write by Texthelp convert written content into audio, helping users with dyslexia or reading difficulties absorb information more easily. These tools often include synchronized highlighting, improving word recognition, and focus.

Screen masking and focus tools

These help reduce on-screen distractions by dimming irrelevant areas or guiding the eye line. 

Examples include:

Useful for: users with ADHD, visual processing disorders, and executive function challenges.

Mind mapping and visual organizers

For users who struggle with linear note-taking or abstract planning, visual mapping tools can help structure information:

These tools are great at offering support for joining the dots for complex auditory information

Assistive technology in education

Inclusive education means empowering every student, regardless of ability, to participate fully in the learning process. Assistive technology is a critical enabler, especially for students with disabilities. When integrated thoughtfully, it enhances learning outcomes, independence, and engagement.

Key use cases across disability types

For students with visual impairments:

  • Screen readers (JAWS, NVDA) provide spoken descriptions of digital content.
  • Braille displays allow reading and writing through tactile input.
  • Accessible e-textbooks offer reflowable, alt-text-equipped formats.

For students with hearing impairments:

  • Captioning services (e.g., Otter.ai, Google Meet captions) ensure access to spoken content.
  • Visual learning tools support comprehension through imagery and text-based resources.

For students with motor disabilities:

  • Alternative input devices like adaptive keyboards or switch controls support writing and navigation.
  • Voice dictation tools (Dragon Naturally Speaking and Google Voice Typing) enable speech-based interaction.

For students with cognitive disabilities:

  • Text simplification tools (Rewordify, SMMRY) and TTS tools support literacy and comprehension.
  • Scheduling apps and visual organizers help with time management and executive function.

Accessibility features in learning platforms

Most major learning management systems (LMS) like Moodle, Blackboard, and Canvas now include built-in accessibility tools such as:

  • Adjustable font sizes and contrast
  • Keyboard navigation support
  • Captioning and transcript tools

Educators can enhance accessibility by providing:

  • Multiple content formats (e.g., video + transcript)
  • Structured documents with headings
  • Alt text for all visual materials

TIP: When designing digital learning materials, apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles – offering multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression.

Assistive technology in the workplace

Workplaces that embrace assistive technology not only support employees with disabilities – they also unlock productivity, inclusivity and innovation. With the right tools and culture, everyone can contribute meaningfully.

Key use cases by disability type

Visual impairments:

  • Screen readers (JAWS, VoiceOver, NVDA) allow employees to interact with software, emails, and documents.
  • Screen magnifiers (ZoomText, Windows Magnifier) assist with reading and on-screen navigation.
  • Accessible email clients and intranet tools with keyboard navigation and alt-text support ensure inclusive communication.

Hearing impairments:

  • Real-time transcription tools (Otter.ai, Microsoft Teams captions) improve meeting accessibility.
  • Video conferencing with live captions or interpreters ensures equal participation.
  • Visual notifications replace audio alerts in workplace systems.

Motor disabilities:

  • Speech recognition software (e.g., Dragon, Windows Speech Recognition) for hands-free computing.
  • Adaptive input devices like ergonomic keyboards, head pointers, and eye-tracking systems.
  • Customizable workstations for physical comfort and accessibility.

Cognitive disabilities:

  • Task automation and reminder tools (e.g., Trello, Asana) for executive function support.
  • Distraction-reducing apps (like Focus@Will or Freedom) to enhance concentration.
  • Simplified interfaces and consistent layouts reduce cognitive load.

Employer responsibilities and best practices

  • Conduct accessibility audits for internal systems and tools.
  • Offer accommodations proactively – through HR processes or inclusive design from the outset.
  • Train teams on digital accessibility, including how to create accessible documents, presentations, and emails.
  • Integrate assistive technologies as standard options – not exceptions.
Note

In many regions (e.g., under the European Accessibility Act), employers and service providers are legally required to ensure workplace accessibility.

How to choose the right assistive technology

With so many tools available, selecting the right assistive technology can feel overwhelming. The key is to align the solution with the individual’s unique needs, context, and preferences – not just the disability category.

1. Start with the user’s goals

  • What tasks or environments are most challenging?
  • Is the goal communication, navigation, education, employment, or daily independence?
  • Consider both short-term needs (e.g., exams, work apps) and long-term adaptability.

2. Assess needs and try solutions

  • Needs assessments (conducted by AT specialists or therapists) help match tools to abilities and context.
  • Trial periods or demos let users test tools before committing.
  • Involving the user in the decision-making process is critical for long-term success.

3. Think about these key elements

  • Compatibility: Will it work with the user’s current devices, browsers, or platforms?
  • Ease of use: Is the interface intuitive and customizable?
  • Support and training: Are tutorials, help guides, or community support available?
  • Cost and funding: Are grants or employer/educational reimbursements available?

Pro tip: Remember that needs evolve. The right solution today may need adjusting tomorrow. Flexibility is key.

Learn more

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