Aging Computer Users

By the time people reach their fifties, two-thirds have vision, hearing, or dexterity impairments that will impact their use of the computer. There are easy ways to adjust the computer without downloading or purchasing anything.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

Suggestions

Sight

• If there is trouble seeing the screen, explore ways to increase text and icons, change colors, and add contrast to what

is seen on the computer screen.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

• If there is trouble seeing things on the Web, many options are available in Internet Explorer 7 to make the Internet

easier to see and explore. Try zooming in on a Web page to magnify text, images, and controls. Also, try changing text,

color, font, and other options to make Web pages easier to see and read.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

Sound

• If there is difficulty hearing videos or other computer sounds, try cranking up the volume. Also, using headphones can

help block out background noise.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

• If there is trouble hearing email alerts, try using text or visual alternatives for sounds and consider adjusting

computer system sounds to tones that are easier to hear.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

Typing

• If experiencing typing errors due to a mild tremor or stiff fingers, try Filter Keys to ignore brief or repeated

keystrokes.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

• If there is difficulty pressing multiple keys at once, try Sticky Keys.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

Mouse

• If there is trouble locating the mouse cursor, adjust the mouse cursor size, appearance, and pointer options.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>
• If there is trouble controlling the mouse, the way the mouse scrolls and how the buttons work, including the double-click

speed, can be changed.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

• Try using ClickLock if you don't want to hold the mouse button down while you drag items with the mouse.<ref>http://www.microsoft.com/enable/aging/default.aspx</ref>

References

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