Moving assistive technology
On this guide page
Alternate Input Devices
These are a variety of keyboards, mice, and other devices for addressing specific movement needs. They can be thought of as being on a spectrum from poor motor function to fine motor function.
Keyboards have different shapes and numbers of keys. Some are flexible or waterproof.
If you have carpal tunnel pain, one option is to use a mouse you can move on its side.
Moving with a trackball instead of the whole mouse may provide better control. These may be useful for people with hand tremors.
Assistive technology can augment your abilities as well. For example, you can use a pen or stylus for fine motor control.
Adaptive Devices
Our challenges are different. What works for you may not work for someone else.
Microsoft provides several options that you can customize to fit your specific needs. You can order Microsoft Adaptive Accessories or create them on a 3D printer.
The Job Accommodation Network lists several other alternative input devices. Many of these allow you to operate without using your hands:
- Use your feet for navigation and hit customizable physical buttons.
- Use your eyes for navigation and blink to select buttons seen on the screen.
- Use your tongue for navigation and hit customizable physical buttons.
- Use your mouth with a straw for navigation and blow to select buttons seen on the screen.
- Use your head for navigation and smile to select buttons seen on the screen.
And so many more innovative ideas!
Notice how selecting buttons is different, though: hit, blink, blow, and smile are just a few ways outside of clicking a physical button. "Selecting" is a more inclusive term for this process that removes some confusion.
Note: We know mouse gestures to interact with digital resources (e.g., click-and-drag, double-click). They also need to function when using only a keyboard. If you are providing instructions, what keyboard commands or shortcuts can people use when they cannot use a mouse?
Voice Recognition
An alternative to a keyboard is using voice command devices. This allows for the hands-free operation of digital resources. We use these in our cars, our homes, or as artificial intelligence (AI) assistants on our smart devices.