LINC hosted a meeting of the Baltimore City Ataxia Support Group at the request of LINC
member Katina Gerow. LINC staff demonstrated a variety of assistive technology devices that
would benefit persons with ataxia. Broadly speaking, the word ěataxiaî simply means
unsteadiness and clumsiness, and has been given to the condition because those are usually
the earliest symptoms. As the disorder progresses, people with ataxia usually lose the ability
to walk, and can become totally disabled, having to depend on others for their care. This is
because ataxia destroys both nerve and muscle cells. Vision, and in some cases hearing, and
speech may also be affected.
LINC staff emphasized that positioning and ergonomics are vital factors in all computer use.
A motorized adjustable height table was demonstrated to stress the importance of proper
positioning for maximized function.
Several input devices were shown to provide options for reduced fine motor control.
One of the most common alternate inputs to a mouse is a trackball. It is a great choice for
individuals who cannot grip a standard mouse or who lack the motor control to hold the mouse and
click at the same time.
Often times with decreased motor coordination, using a standard keyboard can be a challenge.
Several keyboard options were discussed. A standard keyboard may be used with a key-guard to
assist in isolating individual keys. The guard snaps on to the keyboard and has holes over the
keys to reduce the risk of striking several keys at one time.
Several software options for improved computer access were also discussed. The features of
Microsoft Accessibility options were demonstrated. In many cases, computer users donít realize
that there are free tools already at their disposal. Sticky Keys, Key Filters and Mouse Keys
were demonstrated. For those individuals who find typing very laborious, a word prediction
program was shown to help reduce the number of keystrokes required to type.
For computer users with vision impairments, the AI Squared Co. has produced ZoomText Extra
for about 10 years. This software for Microsoft Windows magnifies the screen image from 2 - 16
times to enable computer access for folks needing large print. The latest version includes
customization options to reverse the contrast of the screen, magnify only a portion, and
(optionally) it adds speech synthesis so that screen items may be spoken to the user.
For more information regarding any of these special devices please call the LINC office to
learn more about them.