Assistive Technology Setup Guides

Illustration of the eye cross-section showing the retina at the back of the eye
Illustration of the eye cross-section showing the retina at the back of the eye

Assistive Technology Guides

Step-by-step guides to accessibility features on iPhone, Android, Windows, and Mac for people with inherited retinal diseases.

Step-by-step configuration guides for screen readers and magnification software, specifically tailored for people with inherited retinal diseases. Includes IRD-specific settings for night blindness, tunnel vision, central vision loss, and light sensitivity.

VoiceOver (Apple)

NVDA (Windows)

ZoomText

IRD-Specific Tips

VoiceOver Setup (iOS & macOS)

VoiceOver is Apple's built-in screen reader available on all iPhones, iPads, and Macs at no additional cost. It's often the first screen reader IRD patients encounter because it requires no purchase or installation.

iPhone & iPad Setup

Enable VoiceOver

Adjust Speaking Rate

Configure Zoom + VoiceOver Together

Set Up Display Accommodations

Configure Dark Mode

Learn Core Gestures

Set Up Braille Display (Optional)

Mac Setup

Enable VoiceOver on Mac

Complete VoiceOver Training

Configure Zoom Alongside VoiceOver

Set Up Display Settings

Configure Web Navigation

Official Apple Resources: iPhone VoiceOver Guide | Mac VoiceOver Guide

NVDA Setup (Windows)

NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) is a free, open-source screen reader for Windows. It's powerful, actively maintained, and supports add-ons for extended functionality. An excellent choice for IRD patients who need a full-featured screen reader without the $1,000+ cost of JAWS.

Download & Install NVDA

Initial Configuration Wizard

Adjust Voice & Speed

Configure Vision Settings

Set Up Browse Mode

Install Essential Add-ons

Configure Windows Display Settings

Set Up Browser Integration

Official Resources: NVDA User Guide | Keyboard Commands Reference | Add-on Store

ZoomText Setup (Windows)

ZoomText is the industry-standard screen magnification software for Windows, offering up to 60x magnification with optional speech output. It's particularly well-suited for IRD patients with partial vision who need magnification more than full screen reading. ZoomText Fusion combines ZoomText with JAWS for complete coverage.

Install & Activate ZoomText

Set Initial Magnification Level

Choose Zoom Window Type

Configure Color Enhancement

Set Up Cursor Enhancement

Configure Smooth Navigation

Enable AppReader (Document Reading)

Set Up Text Finder

Configure Hotkeys

Official Resources: ZoomText Product Page | Documentation | Free Training Videos

IRD-Specific Configuration Tips

Different IRDs affect vision in different ways. Here are targeted technology configurations based on your specific type of vision loss:

Important: Start Early, Progress Gradually

Don't wait until you "need" assistive technology. Learning these tools while you still have functional vision is dramatically easier than learning them after significant vision loss. The skills transfer seamlessly as your vision changes.

Recommended progression for progressive IRDs:

Start with built-in accessibility features (display settings, zoom, voice control)

Add magnification software when reading becomes difficult (ZoomText or built-in Zoom)

Learn screen reader basics while you can still see the screen (VoiceOver or NVDA)

Gradually increase reliance on audio/tactile output as vision changes

Transition to full screen reader use if/when magnification is no longer sufficient

Need Training Assistance?

Your state's Commission for the Blind provides free assistive technology training. Many also loan equipment for evaluation before purchase.

Low Vision Resources

Practical strategies and tools for daily living with reduced vision.

State Blind Services

Find state-specific programs for assistive technology funding and training.

Children & Families

Resources specifically for families with children who have vision loss.