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Guide for Individuals with Hearing ImpairmentsHearing impairments encompass a range of conditions—from slight hearing loss to deafness. It is estimated that 1 in 5 computer users has some form of hearing loss. This guide describes accessibility features built into Windows 7 that are available to address hearing impairments and preferences including adjusting computer volume, changing computer sounds, and using text or visual alternatives for sounds. You can also learn about the types of assistive technology products available to further assist you. In this section: |
Make Windows 7 easier to use
Adjust accessibility settings from the Ease of Access Center
The Ease of Access Center is a convenient, central location where you can set up all of the accessibility settings and programs available in Windows, and "get recommendations" for suggested settings to fit your hearing and sound needs and preferences.
Use text or visual alternatives for sounds
Under this heading in the Ease of Access Center you find options for using visual cues to replace sounds in many programs, and access to the audio sound themes control panel.
Adjust computer volume
Although most speakers have a volume control, you can also control speaker volume using Windows. The quickest way to change the speaker volume for your computer is to click the speakers button in the notification area of the taskbar, and then move the slide up or down to increase or decrease the speaker volume.
Change computer sounds
You can have your computer play a sound when certain events occur on your computer. (An event can be an action that you perform, such as logging on to your computer, or an action that your computer performs, such as alerting you when you receive new email.) Windows comes with several sound schemes (a collection of related sounds) for common events. Additionally, some desktop themes have their own sound schemes.
Use Office features for hearing solutions
Depending on the learning or work environment, individuals may be able to use a combination of Windows, Microsoft Outlook, and Microsoft Lync, to communicate via text rather than spoken dialogue with classmates or workmates in real time.
Microsoft Lync 2010 provides a single interface that unites voice communications, instant messaging, and audio, video, and Web conferencing.
People who are deaf or have hearing impairments can communicate effectively using email, text messaging on phones and other devices, and communications interfaces such as Microsoft Lync.
Find assistive technology for hearing impairments
You can shop for assistive technology products compatible with Microsoft Windows made by independent assistive technology companies. People who have hearing impairments may be interested in the following assistive technology:
- Sign language interpretation is useful for students and others with hearing impairments to enable them to actively communicate in the classroom and other settings.
- Personal listening devices and personal amplifying products can also be helpful for people with some hearing.
- Sign language translators such as iCommunicator which is a graphical sign language translator that converts speech to sign language in real time can enable people who are deaf to communicate more easily with hearing people.
© 2012 Microsoft