WATA Bulletin: Fall 2000
Contents:
- Alternatives to the standard computer keyboard
- Alternatives to the standard mouse
- Calendar of Events
Keyboard and mouse alternatives ease computer access for people with injuries or disabilities
Heather Koren, M.S., Rehabilitation Technology Specialist Center, Center for Technolgy and Disability, University of Washington
With today's advancements in technology, no matter what the disability or injury there is almost always a way to access the computer.
For individuals with disabilities or injuries that interfere with the use of the standard input devices, many options are available at relatively reasonable prices. Accessibility options for the standard keyboard and mouse are now available as built-in features on newer computers using either the Windows or the Mac platform.
However, simple software and hardware adaptations of the standard computer keyboard or mouse, as discussed in the Winter 2000 bulletin, may not be sufficient solutions for everyone with functional limitations. Individuals who have more significant limitations may find that adapted keyboards and alternative mice are better solutions. Adapted keyboards range in price from $85 to $750, and adapted mice from a couple dollars at a local computer/office store to around $100 and up.
Alternatives to the Standard Computer Keyboard
One-Handed Keyboards
If the user is limited to one hand for all typing activities, the standard keyboard may be difficult to use because the letter layout on a standard keyboard is specifically designed for two-handed typing. The keys on a standard keyboard can be rearranged or removed to accommodate one-handed typing. Special keyboards already set up for one-handed typing can be purchased in either left-handed or right-handed versions. A caution: If the user was once a touch typist, relearning a new keyboard layout can be very taxing and frustrating.
Mini or Compact Keyboards
This type of keyboard is for individuals who have good motor control but poor range of motion. For some, it is a good alternative to the one-handed keyboard. Someone who is able to press keys that are approximately a half-inch square, but who cannot move an arm far enough to reach all the keys on a standard keyboard, may benefit from a mini or compact keyboard.
Compact keyboards generally have the QWERTY layout and are 50 to 80 percent of the size of a standard keyboard.
The mini keyboard by TASH, for example, is approximately 7.5 x 4.75 inches in overall size. In this case, the selection set (or alphabet) is not the traditional QWERTY layout. Instead, keys are organized so that the most frequently used letters are placed in the center of the keyboard.
Ergonomic Keyboards
The ergonomic keyboard was designed to lessen the strain on the wrists that can result from use of a standard keyboard. An individual with repetitive stress disorder or wrist contractures usually finds it difficult to use a standard keyboard and may benefit from an ergonomically designed one. One example, the Comfort Keyboard by Keyalt.com is split into three sections: two sections for the main alphabet portion, divided down the middle, and a third section for the arrows and number pad. Each section swivels at any angle within three axes.
Expanded Keyboards
Individuals who lack sufficient motor control and accuracy to use a standard keyboard but who can still directly select items may benefit from the features of an expanded keyboard. Most expanded keyboards have membrane-type layouts with larger keys and more space between the keys. They range from 12 x 9 to 21.25 x 14.5 inches in overall size and each has approximately 128 pressure-sensitive pads. They can be customized with buttons ranging in size from 5/8 inch to 1 inch or larger, with any letter layout or with pictures.
Alternatives to the Standard Mouse
Number Keys
Utilizing the number keys on a standard keyboard is one alternative to using the standard mouse. However, this can be a slow and tedious method of moving the cursor around the desktop or document. If the user wants an option closer to the standard mouse, several alternatives are available.
Trackball
A trackball is basically an upside-down mouse. It can be a good option for people with deficits in fine motor control. The roller ball is located on top and the buttons used for clicking are located above and/or below the ball, depending on the model. This configuration helps to avoid accidental movement of the cursor before a selection is made. It can be especially helpful for individuals who have tremors or ataxic movements. On some trackballs, the buttons are programmable, allowing the user to designate the buttons as single, double, left and right clicks, or latching for dragging.
Joystick
If fine motor control seems to be a problem but gross motor control is intact, a joystick is a viable navigation option. Joysticks use more arm movement and less wrist movement. A joystick requires less range of motion than does a mouse, and can be especially helpful for someone with carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive stress disorder.
TrackPad
If the user has good fine motor control but has limited gross motor function or range of motion, then a TrackPad can be useful. This flat, touch-sensitive pad can be placed just about anywhere, from the chair armrest to the user's lap. The user maneuvers the cursor around the computer desktop by simply touching the pad and sliding a finger along the surface. Clicking options range from tapping the pad to using buttons located below the touch surface.
Video Game Controller
Another option for problems with range of motion is a video game controller. This option can be held close to the body. Keys are arranged close together for easy accessibility. A game controller requires use of two hands to operate all navigation options.
USEFUL WEBSITES:
One-Handed Keyboards - www.infogrip.com
Mini Keyboards - www.tashint.com
Ergonomic Keyboards - keyalt.com
Expanded Keyboards - www.synapseadaptive.com
Trackball - www.kensington.com
Joystick - www.rjcooper.com
& www.donjohnston.com
TrackPad - www.cirque.com
MORE INFORMATION - www.tggweb.com
See the Winter 2000 issue of the WATA Bulletin for an earlier discussion of software adjustments and hardware add-ons that promote ease of computer use for persons with injuries or disabilities.
Calendar of Events
Closing the Gap, October 19-21, 2000, Minneapolis, Minnesota
The 18th Annual Conference will provide a comprehensive examination of the most current uses of technology by persons with disabilities. Topics cover a broad spectrum of technology used by people with disabilities of all ages. For more information: www.closingthegap.com
Access 2000, October 25, 2000, Seattle
Network with people with disabilities, employers committed to employing the disabled, vendors showcasing assistive technology, and representatives from community based organization providing employment and training services to individuals with disabilities. Includes the Governor' Employer Award Program, the Washington Business Leader Network Conference, and the Assistive Technology and Resources Exhibit. For more information contact Glorita Doctor McIntyre, (425) 774-1484, glodoc@yahoo.com (email).
For calendar Updates, visit the Web at http://wata.org/calendar.htm
For references and more information, contact WATA at uwat@u.washington.edu or 800-841-8345.
Your feedback is welcome. If you have comments, or mailing list additions or changes, please contact:
WATA Bulletin
University of Washington
Box 357920
Seattle WA 98195-7920
800-841-8345 (V/TTY)
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206-543-4779 (fax)
e-mail: uwctds@u.washington.edu
The WATA Bulletin is supported by grant H224A3006 from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, U.S. Department of Education, to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Olympia, WA.