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With almost every 1 in 5 people suffering from a cognitive disability in the United States alone, it is no longer a part of society that can be left on the bleachers.

The online world is woven into our daily lives and it is unavoidable to survive without being a part of it. Access to online information and services has become the norm in today's digital world for everyone.

However, people with cognitive limitations tend to face setbacks when trying to access this seemingly inclusive world.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that roughly 15% of the world's population suffers from some type of cognitive impairment. To ensure inclusivity and diversity, we must make digital interfaces easy to understand for these people.

Cognitive disabilities and employment

People with cognitive problems can be as brilliant and capable as those who are not disabled. They tend to struggle with particular skills, including learning, communicating, and problem-solving. This difficulty has major implications on their employability as well, especially with the need to be “tech-savvy”.

For example, individuals with dyslexia face difficulties with reading and comprehending language easily. While this does not damper their spirit to excel in the digital space, as creators it is our shared responsibility to make our digital interfaces accessible.

Studies in the past have shown that individuals with cognitive disabilities had a 17.9% employment-to-population ratio, compared to 62.3% for those without disabilities. If these numbers do not raise some red flags, we are doing something completely wrong.

Challenges faced by people with cognitive disabilities in the digital world

Cognitive disorders can manifest in a number of ways and impact people differently. Some examples of common cognitive issues are:

  • Dyslexia
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Alzheimer's Disease
  • Intellectual Disabilities

While the digital interface is often perceived as a world of wonder and excitement, it may not always be the case for all. Individuals with cognitive disabilities often encounter difficulties when interacting with digital interfaces, making it a frustrating and challenging experience. Some of these difficulties are:

  • Complex Language
  • Navigation Issues
  • Cognitive Overload
  • Inaccessible Forms

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to the rescue?

This has been a concern waiting to be addressed and the WCAG has been at the forefront of navigating this change. To build accessible interfaces, digital designers use a palette of principles, similar to how artists use a palette of colors.

The Web Information Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) were developed by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) to provide a comprehensive framework for improving digital accessibility.

Here are some key WCAG principles:

  • Perceivable
  • Operable
  • Understandable
  • Robust

WCAG and cognitive disabilities

With an importance on raising awareness of the challenges faced by those who have cognitive disabilities, the WCAG has regulations that focus solely on this.

Join these brands by becoming 'Accessible'

Several organizations have taken significant steps to make their websites and digital interfaces more accessible to individuals with cognitive disabilities.

Here are a few inspiring examples:

  • The BBC website is well-known for its dedication to accessibility. They make their material accessible to a wide range of users by providing simplified versions of articles, clear and consistent navigation, and user-friendly video player controls
  • Google’s Product Suite, including Google Search, offers accessibility features such as voice search and screen reader compatibility. They also provide a simpler search experience for those with cognitive difficulties
  • Walmart’s website has an easily navigable design with clear headings and navigation. They also include an accessibility widget that allows users to tailor their browsing experience to their specific needs

How can you make a difference?

In addition to making your workforce more diverse, offer specialized digital skills training programs that are customized to the needs of people with cognitive disabilities. Basic computer literacy, software use, and internet navigation should all be included in these programs.

Creating understandable and user-friendly digital interfaces for people with cognitive disabilities is not just an ethical responsibility, but it is also a legal necessity in countries like the United States.

Take a moment to evaluate the accessibility of your website. Are you adhering to the WCAG principles? Is your business website truly as navigable as it may seem to the naked eye? Commit to improving accessibility for all users, especially those with cognitive impairments.

What role does enable play in this change?

enable ensures that businesses have accessible digital interfaces so that everyone, regardless of cognitive disability, can access and benefit from the wealth of information and services available on the web by adhering to the WCAG regulations. This brings us one step closer to a more inclusive digital world.

As we continue to raise awareness, it is important to remember that in the vast landscape of the digital world, accessibility is not just a kind gesture – it is the foundation of an inclusive society. It should be a norm, rather than a luxury offered by a select few.