Is large print Accessibility?

I would like to pose a question to the group...

Is large print part of accessibility?


This question is primarily geared toward using graphics as text (of course
with alt attributes set) or fixed-size text as links.  My own understanding
is that in either case, the links will be just fine for aural browsers and
images turned off.  The problem will be present for 2 groups:

     - Visually impaired, but not completely blind.
     - Those who need reading glasses.

The first group (it is my understanding) would have tools at thier disposal
to have access to these images or text, such as screen magnification
programs.  So that leaves us with those who need reading glasses, like many
of the middle aged or seniors.  They might have the text set to the largest
size, but this would not have any effect on images or text that is specified
to an exact size.

Now I say the following given that I do not have a full understanding of all
users abilities and equiptment, so I pretty much expect to be somewhat
wrong.  It seems to me that using images for text isn't much of a barrier to
legally disabled persons.  It could be, however, for someone like my father
who has no disabilities, but does need reading glasses.  He might have
trouble trying to view many pages without his glasses, such as
www.citigroup.com which uses smaller sized image-text.

So I ask you all, am I forgetting any groups?  Am I wrong to assume that
those with impaired site (not completely blind) would generally have access
to a screen magnifier?

Additionally, if this does leave out a group, are there other ways to
accomidate them with such a site?

 - Ben Morris

Received on Monday, 2 October 2000 13:37:57 UTC