CINCINNATI ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND

2045 Gilbert Avenue • Cincinnati, OH 45202-1490

513-221-8558 • FAX 513-221-2995

COMPUTER ACCESS SERVICE

Evaluation, instruction and consultation on computer access technology

for persons who are blind or visually impaired

OUR SERVICES

CAB's Computer Access Service provides information, evaluation, instruction, and consultation on access technology to help persons achieve their vocational, academic or personal goals.

Information and referral ... to explore options for access and mainstream technologies, hardware and software, resources, and CAB's services.

Evaluation ... of needs and abilities. Recommendations are made on selection of access technology and a plan is prepared to achieve goals.

Individualized instruction ... and consultations at CAB, on the job or at home by qualified staff.

ACCESS TECHNOLOGY

Access technology is special computer equipment (hardware or software) which enables persons who are blind or visually impaired to operate computers independently. Access technology converts print into large print, synthetic speech or braille.

Large print software and various sized monitors enlarge the text on the screen. This is especially helpful for those who are partially sighted.

Screen review programs read aloud the text displayed on the screen.

Braille adaptations for computers are available for braille users. Specialized electronic equipment can give access to both braille input and output from a computer.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) products allow persons to scan printed material into a computer and then read it with access technology.

Internet access via mainstream and specialized browsing and e-mail programs are also available.

HOW PEOPLE BENEFIT

Vocational goals

Most office jobs require computer skills. With training, persons can use computers to perform various jobs in large or small businesses.

Academic goals

High school and college students who are blind or visually impaired can learn to use adaptive technology to complete coursework and to access the internet.

Personal goals

Retired persons, homemakers and parents desire to use computers at home just as sighted persons do. Some may also want to use computers for volunteer activities.

HOW EMPLOYERS BENEFIT

CAB's Computer Access Service consults with businesses wishing to employ or retain persons who are blind or visually impaired. This includes recommendations on selection of access technology compatible with the company's existing systems.

Retain a valuable employee. Companies purchasing their first computer system or upgrading a system may need information about access technology for an employee who is blind or visually impaired.

Hire a qualified worker with computer skills. CAB's Computer Access Service can fit job sites and work stations with adaptive technology to add a skilled worker to an organization.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Established in 1986, our Computer Access Service has assisted hundreds of people in achieving their goals.

We would be pleased to discuss your needs. We welcome inquiries from:

• Individuals

• Businesses

• Organizations

• Vocational rehabilitation counselors

• Human resources managers

• Management information systems personnel

For further information call 221-8558

The Cincinnati Association for the Blind is a not-for-profit organization providing counseling, rehabilitation and employment services to persons who are blind or visually impaired.

Member, National Industries for the Blind

Accredited Member, National Accreditation Council

A United Way Agency

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer