At our company, we believe that everyone should have equal access to the internet. As such, we are committed to creating websites that are user-friendly and accessible to everyone, including those who are visually impaired.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of creating websites for blind users, the challenges faced by visually impaired users when accessing websites, and how website designers and developers can make their websites more accessible to this audience.
Why Websites for Blind Users are Important
According to the World Health Organization, there are approximately 285 million visually impaired people worldwide, with 39 million of them being blind. This represents a significant portion of the population, and website designers and developers must take this into account when creating their websites.
Creating accessible websites is not only a moral obligation but also a legal one. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all public-facing websites be accessible to people with disabilities, including visual impairments. Failure to comply with these guidelines can result in legal action being taken against the website owner.
Challenges Faced by Visually Impaired Users
Visually impaired users face numerous challenges when accessing websites. Some of these challenges include:
Fortunately, there are several ways to make websites more accessible to blind users. Here are some of the best practices that website designers and developers should follow:
Use descriptive alt tags for images
Alt tags are used to describe images to visually impaired users who are using screen readers to browse the web. By using descriptive alt tags, website designers can ensure that visually impaired users have a complete understanding of the content on the page.
Provide text descriptions for videos
Videos are a great way to engage users, but they can be challenging for visually impaired users. By providing text descriptions of the video content, website designers can ensure that visually impaired users have access to the same information as sighted users.
Use clear and concise language
Using clear and concise language is essential when creating websites for blind users. Avoid using complex language, jargon, or slang, as this can be difficult for visually impaired users to understand.
Ensure proper website structure
Proper website structure is critical when designing websites for blind users. By using proper headings, lists, and other structural elements, website designers can ensure that visually impaired users can easily navigate the website.
Conclusion
Creating websites for blind users is essential for ensuring that everyone has equal access to the internet. By following best practices and making websites more accessible to visually impaired users, website designers and developers can ensure that their websites are compliant with legal requirements and provide a better user experience for all users.
We are committed to creating accessible websites for all users, including those who are visually impaired. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make your website more accessible.