What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a neurodivergent condition that affects how someone reads, writes, and spells. The specific cause of dyslexia is unknown, but current research suggests it may be reliant on multiple factors. Dyslexia is a lifelong condition.
With dyslexia, the brain struggles to process language conventionally. Letters may swap when reading, it may seem impossible to find the right words, and there can be challenges with focusing, to name a few. Everyone experiences dyslexia slightly differently, however, and consequently develops a unique set of coping mechanisms.
Dyslexia is likely underdiagnosed, particularly among adults. Some may not realize this is what they are experiencing. If this is the case, approaching the topic in a private space and allowing someone to make their own decisions is critical.
Referring to People with Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a condition that is split on how to refer to it. People tend to use identity-first language (dyslexic) when discussing themselves if they see dyslexia as integral to their life experience. However, person-first language may also be used. Rather than assuming, it’s best to ask or listen to how someone refers to themselves.
It’s important to never refer to dyslexia as a deficit, laziness, or a failure of schooling.
Creating an Accessible Environment for Dyslexic People
Dyslexic-Friendly Fonts and Colors
There are dyslexic-friendly fonts, such as Open Dyslexic, available for free or minimal cost. These fonts are specifically created to help dyslexic brains process the content of the message, though the average audience can read them, too. Using them for written communication can be enormously beneficial, and changing fonts takes a few seconds in most word processors.
Additionally, some dyslexic people benefit from having written communication printed on a non-white page, as long as there’s still enough contrast to read. This choice reduces overall visual stress but should be confirmed with the dyslexic before implementation.
Allow Assistive Technology Use
Many people with dyslexia have developed accommodations they use regularly. Options like text-to-speech are popular since the audio is processed differently than written communication would be. Being open to the use of these technologies can make an enormous difference.
Enable Predictive and Corrective Software
Predictive and corrective written communication software helps dyslexics communicate their point with less frustration. Using spellcheck or a writing checker not only supports writing the text itself but also organizing ideas. Even if it’s simply someone typing on their phone before they speak their points, this can make an enormous difference for a dyslexic.
Incorporate Audio Recording Where Practical
Many dyslexics internalize audio better than they do written communication. Using a smartphone to take an audio recording of the business portions of a meeting and then distribute it to members via a private community, for example, might help anyone who wants to participate or has to miss a meeting.
Feel like this guide is missing something? Let us know at sfcoa@sfi.org.
Want to know more about accessible communication? Check out Accessible Communication 101.