Increase the size of all items with scaling: If you think everything on the computer screen is too small and find it difficult to see, consider increasing the scaling. It’s basically a zoom setting. In Windows, this scaling setting is represented as a percentage and is found in the Display and Ease of Access setting. Your computer typically is at 100% and putting it to 125% will increase the size of the items on the screen by 25%. Typically, I suggest 125% and 150% as a maximum.
Change text and background colors for high-contrast: Sometimes making the items on the screen have high-contrast colors helps you see them better. For instance, a black background with white or yellow text. You can try the default high-contrast mode of Windows by hitting the ALT + left SHFT + PRINT SCREEN keys all at once. You can also further customize the colors to your liking in the Personalization or Ease of Access settings. To turn off the high-contrast mode, hit those same keys again.
Get a better keyboard and/or mouse: The keyboard and mouse are also difficult for many with impairments or disabilities. Perhaps get a keyboard with larger print or keys and/or high-contrast colors for the letters and characters, or those with backlit keys that glow. There are also track ball mouses and other input devices that might work better for some.
Utilize speech to text: If you can’t easily use a keyboard and/or mouse, consider using speech dictation software and a microphone so you can tell your computer what to do and what to type. Windows 10 comes with the Cortana feature and Windows 11 comes with Microsoft Speech Services, which gives you basic functionality, but you can consider third-party software.
Eric Geier is the owner of On Spot Techs, a computer repair and IT services company offering on-site service at homes and businesses in the Dayton and Springfield areas and also a storefront at 4732 S. Dixie Dr. in Moraine. For more information, visit www.onspottechs.com or call 937-315-0286.
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