The standard button size of numbers and symbols on standard push button telephones can be too small for people with vision impairment or impaired hand mobility to use accurately. A range of push button phones are available with large buttons, spacing between buttons and tactile markers for easier dialling.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Being able to accurately view and dial the numbers on a telephone is crucial in most workplaces. For people with vision impairment or impaired hand dexterity using a telephone with both large button size and increased spacing between buttons can assist with telephone dialling accuracy and therefore increase confidence when using the phone.
When purchasing a large button phone consider features such as the availability of:
- high contrast numbers on the keypad such as black on white
- visual ring indicator light
- memory function for most frequently used numbers
- standard or cordless handset
- one touch dialling function.
For eligible customers, large button telephones may be available through individual telecommunications provider disability equipment programs.
For people with vision impairment an alternative to a large button telephone is:
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2011, Telephones, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 23 June 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/search3.asp?State=VIC&MC=61&MinC=20.
Telstra 2011, Disability Equipment Program, Telstra Corporation, Melbourne, viewed 23 June 2011, http://telstra.com.au/abouttelstra/commitments/disability-services/disability-equipment-program/.
Vision Australia 2010, Using the Telephone, Vision Australia, Enfield, viewed 23 June 2011, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=855.