Perspective: the problem with reading

What problems do people have with reading?

Blindness

• All definitions of ‘blind’ are vague• All include use of ‘best available’ vision aids.• Some ‘blind people’ (with tunnel vision) may

be able to read reasonably normally. Larger type a problem for these people.

• Some

Poor visual acuity

• ‘Partially sighted’ in the UK is roughly speaking the same as ‘blind’ for reading purposes.

• There is then a continuity between ‘partially-sighted’ to ‘perfect vision’ and beyond.

• Over-65s are 16% of the UK population and rising – common to have mild eye disorders

Illiteracy

What can we do about it?

• Reading aids• Media choice• Bigger print

Clear print and large print

• Who will clear print help?• Who will large print help?

Where does the demand for minimum type sizes come from?

• Research?• User preference?• Disability rights groups?

Guidelines

• UK– Plain English campaign– RNIB ‘See it right’

• US– Lighthouse International

Regulations

• UK• US

What do the regulations say?