Speech Recognition
Speech recognition allows users to control their computers using their voice. Some options are built into operating systems, while others are downloadable software. The following free solutions are commonly used with our patients.
- Windows Voice Access: Built into Windows 11 settings. This provides voice navigation, dictation, and editing within various programs and browsers.
- Google Docs Voice Typing: Allows for basic dictation, editing, and navigation within a Google document.
- Lilyspeech: A downloadable speech recognition program for Windows computers that works across a wide range of applications. This option is primarily for dictation and has limitations correcting and editing.
- Voice Control for Mac: Built into the accessibility settings. This provides voice navigation, dictation, and editing within various programs and browsers.
Keyboard Options
Choosing the right keyboard can help improve one’s accuracy and speed with typing and also improve ergonomic positioning. Programmable keyboards and keypads can be helpful as they allow the use of custom shortcuts, and can improve efficiency with workflow. For individuals who type with one hand, specialized one-handed keyboards are available. However, they are often costly and have a steep learning curve. Our preference is to use “micro” or “mini” keyboards. These allow the user to access all the keys easily within reach of one hand. There are practice exercises online to develop this skill.
Mouse Options
Hand Control Mice
- Adesso iMouse: A more affordable trackball option with programmable buttons. It does not support programming a dedicated click-and-drag function, unlike the Kensington model below.
- Cirque Smart Cat Touchpad: This trackpad has programmable buttons and a one-touch scroll. Like most trackpads, you can use either your finger or a stylus.
- Contour RollerMouse: Designed for compact work spaces, this device supports improved ergonomic positioning. It is designed to be used with both the right and left hands to distribute the workload and avoid overuse syndromes. To operate this mouse, use a light touch with your fingers or the side of your hand, allowing your arm to be in a relaxed position.
- Kensington Expert Trackball: Has four programmable buttons for customizing click options. Programming requires downloading free software from the manufacturer’s website.
Hands-Free Mice
- Mac head pointer: A built-in Mac accessibility feature that uses your computer’s camera to track head movements to move a cursor on the screen. To click, there are several options including dwell, facial expressions, or an accessory switch.
- HeadMouse Nano: This plugs into your device and is positioned directly in front of the user on top of the monitor. The mouse tracks head movement using a reflective dot placed on the user’s forehead, glasses, or hat. To click, external switches or dwell clicker software such as Dwell Clicker 2 can be used. For Mac users, accessibility settings allow you to incorporate dwell-to-click.
- PCEye: Eye-controlled mouse which allows one to control all the functions of a Windows computer. It is plugged into a USB port on a computer and positioned at the base of the monitor. Downloadable software allows you to customize a wide variety of functions including setup and use.
- QuadJoy: A mouth-controlled joystick with programmable sip-and-puff functions. This joystick can be a good option for someone who has limited neck range of motion or experiences pain.
- Quadstick: This mouth-operated device is primarily designed as a game controller, but can also be used as a mouse. It’s compatible with Android, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and many PC games that use a joystick, mouse, or keyboard. In some cases, you may need an accessory to enable compatibility with these gaming systems.
- Quha: A gyroscopic head control mouse that uses dwell click or accessory switches. It offers several wearable options such as headbands and glasses, and is compatible with computers, tablets, and smart phones.
- Smyle Mouse: A software download that requires no external hardware as it uses your existing web camera. Head movement controls the cursor, and to click the user can either use a facial gesture such as a smile, or dwell-to-click. The user settings offer many options to customize a wide variety of features of this mouse. Note: this mouse is only compatible with Windows devices at this time.
- TetraMouse: This joystick-style mouse is operated using the lips, chin, or tongue. One joystick is used for navigation and the other for clicking. This mouse is ideal for those who have limited breath control and head movement.
Power Wheelchair Bluetooth Features
Many power wheelchairs have Bluetooth functionality which you can use to control your smart device and mouse functions on a computer. This is controlled through the drive control on the wheelchair. For more information, reach out to your wheelchair vendor.
Microphones
If you are using voice control on your computer, an external microphone may improve accuracy. Below are some options that our team recommends.
- Samson Go Mic: A compact portable USB microphone that can be clipped onto a laptop or placed on your desk.
- Sound Tech GN-USB-2: Features noise cancellation and a longer arm to position it closer to the user for clearer audio input.
Accessibility Features
Explore built-in accessibility features in Mac and Windows computers for options for speech and visual settings, and making your keyboard easier to use.
Additional Resources
Ad-blocking software: Pop-up ads can be distracting and confusing, especially to those who have had a brain injury. Ad-blocking apps can make using the internet more productive and enjoyable. There are many brands available. You can conduct a web search for an ad blocker specific to your browser.
Both Mac and Windows offer their own built-in, on-screen keyboards which allow you to type by using a mouse. There are other downloadable options which may offer more customization features.
Ergonomics
An ergonomic workstation can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders and reduce pain and fatigue. It can also help increase productivity and supports good long-term health. A formal evaluation is highly recommended as individual needs vary. An evaluation will look at overall setup, how the body is positioned and supported, and how essential tools such as the keyboard, mouse, and monitor are arranged to reduce strain and improve comfort.
The Tech Lab offers these resources for educational purposes and does not endorse any products, including those mentioned on this site. Many others are available. Please check online for additional products, manufacturers, and user reviews.