Telephone users with disabilities

Telephones - What features do disabled people need?

Image of person using telephone with enlarged keys.

Physical problems can make holding a handset difficult and make keypad operation slow and inaccurate. These tasks may also be painful. Careful ergonomic design is essential if the telephone is to be of practical use.

Essential Features
Enlarged keys.	Guarded/recessed keys.
Dial-out buffer memory.	Keypad not in handset.
Plug-in keyboard.	Non-slip base.
Key pressure selectable.	Handset - easy grip.
Key feedback - tactile.	Handset - lightweight.
Key feedback - audible.	Handset - ergonomic shape.
Key feedback - displayed.	Handset - plug connected
Inserting cards or coins.
Desirable Features
Hands-free operation.	Speech-input keying.

Disability category links
Hearing impairment - moderate.	Speech impairment - severe.
Hearing impairment - severe.	Limited dexterity.
Deafness.	Limited use of hands/arms.
Visual impairment - moderate.	Weak grip.
Visual impairment - severe.	Hand tremor.
Blindness.	Cognitive impairment.
Deaf-blindness.	Restricted mobility (lower limb).
Speech impairment - moderate.

How disabilities affect telephone use

Users with disabilities - the numbers

User categories and definitions

Telephone Features

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Published by Royal National Institute of the Blind on behalf of PhoneAbility
supported by Department of Trade and Industry and British telecommunications plc