Adapting The Dating Disabled Service For Special Needs Users by Peter Finch

Dating websites for the disabled have been a wonderful service for those living with disability or limiting medical conditions. By opening doors to new friends and relationships, they have changed a lot of lives. The sheer number of such websites is encouraging.

The disabled dating service is used by people living with various types of disabilities and conditions. Some of these can make it difficult for the person to use the computer effectively, while others may need special technological help to access the web. For example, the visually challenged find it helpful to use screen readers which speak out the written word and some hearing impaired internet users need voice recognition technology to get maximum benefit from their time on the net.

Dating websites for the disabled which are sensitive to the needs of their patrons accommodate these factors when presenting their service. Some features of these websites which make them easy to use are listed below.

Clear format: The information is presented without any cluttering or extra graphics thrown in. This makes it easier and less distracting.

Sensitive choice of text: There are some fonts which making reading easier for those who are visually challenged or those suffering from dyslexia. Dating websites catering to the disabled use these fonts and large, clear text to enhance their service. Being able to resize text to suit the users particular needs and absence of hard coded text which cannot be changed are also useful features.

Presence of text labels: Text labels are spoken descriptions of pictures and images that help the visually challenged see images on the site. The text labels should be informative and readable by the screen readers that assist many disabled internet users.

Navigation through keyboard: Using a mouse is not always an option for many users. It is then beneficial if the site can be navigated entirely through the keyboard.

Limited Use of Javascript: Javascript refers to mini programmes which are embedded in some sites. However its presence limits anyone using an old browser or a special browser from accessing the site. So, it helps if the site can be accessed even when the Javascript is disabled.

Good colour contrast: The colour combinations used on a website have special significance for users with dyslexia and visual impairments. Certain combinations are more conducive to users with these impairments while others may aggravate the problem.

No sudden pop-up windows : Windows which pop up without warning can be confusing for those suffering from cognitive or learning disabilities and distracting for many others.

Most dating disabled websites offer their service to users whose disabilities cover a wide range of impairments. Thus to take into account the needs of all they may need the help of specialist web designers who modify websites to suit the need of the clientele.

There are also groups who offer training and support as well as disabled end testing and disability audits. All these together can make a disabled dating service accommodate the needs of their users in a sensitive way.

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