Informed decision making on assistive technology workplace accommodations for people with visual impairments

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Gamble, Mandy J. | Dowler, Denetta L. | Hirsh, Anne E.

Affiliations: Job Accommodation Network, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA

Note: [] Address for correspondence: PO Box 6080, Morgantown, WV 26506-6080, USA. Tel.: +1 304 293 7186; Fax: +1 304 293 5407; E-mail: hirsh@jan.icdi.wvu.edu

Abstract: Underemployment of people with visual impairments is an important problem in the world of work. Barriers to successful employment include the lack of informed decision making concerning AT as a workplace accommodation. Choosing effective Assistive Technology (AT) as an accommodation solution is imperative to successful employment of individuals with vision impairments. While not all jobs require AT as a part of an accommodation, when AT is needed, an informed choice is the best approach. This article describes the five step process for selecting appropriate AT for individuals with vision impairments in workplace accommodations developed by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN). Cases from the JAN database that involve people with vision impairments were examined. Resources to enable readers to further evaluate and implement effective AT solutions are provided.

Journal: Work, vol. 23, no. 2, pp. 123-130, 2004