Technology for People with Tetraplegia, Part 1: Accessing Computers

Abstract

Computers have provided a means for people with tetraplegia to compete equally with able-bodied individuals, develop their intellectual and creative abilities and improve their quality of life. For this group of people to benefit from using computers, alternatives to the standard keyboard and mouse, and software to increase the rate of inputting data, are essential. This article describes ‘transparent’ alternatives to standard hardware and software. It discusses keyboard alternatives, point and shoot devices, switches, voice recognition, keyboard emulation and text acceleration packages. The importance of rehabilitation centres offering a comprehensive and up-to-date computer service is highlighted.