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?