1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:01,770 Ralph: So here's the question for today. 2 00:00:02,160 --> 00:00:04,620 Do you ever get frustrated trying to use your devices? 3 00:00:04,620 --> 00:00:06,450 Because the text is too small. 4 00:00:06,870 --> 00:00:11,340 The controls are hard to access or the audio is just not loud enough. 5 00:00:11,790 --> 00:00:15,990 What if I told you there is accessibility features built right into your devices? 6 00:00:16,319 --> 00:00:19,020 That can help you make them work better for you. 7 00:00:19,560 --> 00:00:23,369 At the end of the show me, I'm even going to tell you what I just recently did to make my life easier. 8 00:00:23,610 --> 00:00:25,093 So don't miss today's show. 9 00:00:26,873 --> 00:00:45,973 Intro: Welcome to the Ask Ralph Podcast, where listening to an experienced financial professional with over 30 years of experience can help you make sense of confusing questions, current headlines, and industry trends about taxes, small business, financial decision making, investment strategies, and even the art of proper budgeting. 10 00:00:46,273 --> 00:00:53,063 Ask Ralph makes the complex simple by sharing his real world knowledge from a Christian perspective with all things financial. 11 00:00:53,303 --> 00:00:55,853 Now here's your host, Ralph Estep, Jr. 12 00:00:57,093 --> 00:00:59,013 Ralph: welcome to our technology Tuesday show. 13 00:00:59,043 --> 00:01:00,603 I'm so glad you chose to join us. 14 00:01:00,903 --> 00:01:04,323 I just want to thank you for listening and more importantly, supporting the program. 15 00:01:04,803 --> 00:01:19,563 I'm coming to this morning from the Estep Farm at the Saggio Accounting studio . As I always say, let me put on my podcaster hat, put down those overalls and slide that adding machine to the side and let's get into some financial wisdom from a Christian perspective. 16 00:01:20,103 --> 00:01:22,833 Today, we're talking about something near and dear to my heart. 17 00:01:23,103 --> 00:01:28,513 As I get older, I look for more of these things and that's accessibility options for your devices. 18 00:01:29,083 --> 00:01:31,683 Don't forget to subscribe to the show and join our email list. 19 00:01:32,013 --> 00:01:37,113 You do that in askralphpodcast.com . You don't want to miss tomorrow show tomorrow. 20 00:01:37,113 --> 00:01:39,903 I'm going to talk about the dollar store scam. 21 00:01:40,413 --> 00:01:40,893 That's right. 22 00:01:40,893 --> 00:01:46,233 My friends, how dollar stores are leading to bad economic decisions for lower income populations. 23 00:01:46,623 --> 00:01:51,363 I don't know if you've heard about this, but I'm going to expose some interesting facts tomorrow on the show. 24 00:01:51,843 --> 00:01:52,953 I also want to bring to your attention. 25 00:01:52,953 --> 00:02:00,093 We just launched an insider's group on Facebook and I encourage each of our listeners to join the group to continue the conversation from the show. 26 00:02:00,453 --> 00:02:04,233 Share ideas for the show or discuss your triumphs and your challenges. 27 00:02:04,623 --> 00:02:07,263 I have a link to the Facebook group in the show notes. 28 00:02:07,923 --> 00:02:20,403 I don't know about you, but as I get older, I find that I need to tweak and adjust the settings on my devices to make the text bigger, the controls, easier to see and use and the audio louder and clearer. 29 00:02:20,653 --> 00:02:27,073 I used to struggle trying to read text messages on my phone or tablet because the default text size was just too small. 30 00:02:27,493 --> 00:02:31,453 I guess I finally had to let go of vanity and live in my middle age reality. 31 00:02:31,963 --> 00:02:32,833 I liked all that. 32 00:02:33,223 --> 00:02:36,463 Area on the screen, but man, as I get older, it's harder to see it. 33 00:02:36,883 --> 00:02:47,533 The good news is many devices have great built in accessibility features that can help in situations just like that, where they need larger text, increased contrast. 34 00:02:47,833 --> 00:02:50,503 Audio enhancements or other accommodations. 35 00:02:50,923 --> 00:02:56,383 Exploring your devices, accessibility settings can make your technology work better for you and listen folks. 36 00:02:56,383 --> 00:02:57,103 That's the key. 37 00:02:57,403 --> 00:02:59,203 The technology needs to work for you. 38 00:02:59,533 --> 00:03:03,973 So in today's episode, we're going to explore some of the common accessibility options available. 39 00:03:04,303 --> 00:03:08,203 And more importantly, how to access device settings to enable helpful features. 40 00:03:08,683 --> 00:03:10,033 My goal is pretty simple today. 41 00:03:10,363 --> 00:03:16,333 It's to empower you with the knowledge so you can customize your phone, your tablet, or your computer. 42 00:03:16,843 --> 00:03:19,003 And make it better suit your needs. 43 00:03:19,523 --> 00:03:20,993 Well, let's start with today's Bible verse. 44 00:03:21,023 --> 00:03:26,063 Let's start a discussion with Proverbs chapter two, verses six and seven, which says this. 45 00:03:26,573 --> 00:03:28,223 For the Lord gives wisdom. 46 00:03:28,793 --> 00:03:31,403 From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 47 00:03:31,793 --> 00:03:34,283 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright. 48 00:03:34,823 --> 00:03:42,443 So as we explore ways to make our devices more accessible, let's ask God, for wisdom and understanding to make the best use of the tools we have. 49 00:03:42,443 --> 00:03:43,493 So let's get started. 50 00:03:44,063 --> 00:03:46,823 Let's do a quick rundown of some common accessibility features. 51 00:03:46,823 --> 00:03:56,363 You should be aware of many smartphones, tablets, computers, and other devices include options to increase text size, magnify your screen. 52 00:03:56,873 --> 00:04:00,503 Reverse contrast colors, have it speak, text out loud. 53 00:04:00,503 --> 00:04:01,973 I think that's really a cool feature. 54 00:04:02,393 --> 00:04:04,493 Make it adjust caption settings. 55 00:04:05,003 --> 00:04:14,033 And change touch and keyboard sensitivity, you can simplify the interface and most importantly, you can enhance quality and audio volume. 56 00:04:14,093 --> 00:04:15,263 That's really a big deal. 57 00:04:15,593 --> 00:04:23,453 Now, of course, some devices will have more options than others, but at a minimum, most interfaces and operating systems now include some basic accessibility settings. 58 00:04:23,823 --> 00:04:25,413 These settings will look a little different. 59 00:04:25,713 --> 00:04:26,943 On each type of device. 60 00:04:26,943 --> 00:04:28,833 So let's cruise through them one by one. 61 00:04:29,403 --> 00:04:35,673 We'll start with apple devices as you've listened to the show, you know, I'm an apple guy, these are their iPhone, your iPad, your Macs, and more. 62 00:04:36,153 --> 00:04:38,973 To access accessibility settings on apple devices. 63 00:04:39,243 --> 00:04:44,463 You're going to open your phone or tablet and go to settings app or open the system preferences on your Mac. 64 00:04:45,153 --> 00:04:46,623 Once you get there, it's pretty simple. 65 00:04:46,833 --> 00:04:50,373 Just choose accessibility and explore available options for vision. 66 00:04:50,793 --> 00:04:53,103 Physical motor skills hearing and more. 67 00:04:53,643 --> 00:05:05,103 On iOS devices, you can also activate easy Reacher zoom and other accessibility features by pulling down the right corner or tapping on the home button three times or changing settings under accessibility shortcuts. 68 00:05:05,353 --> 00:05:06,963 There's a host of ways to do it. 69 00:05:07,293 --> 00:05:08,643 But the key is getting to it. 70 00:05:09,123 --> 00:05:12,613 So some helpful settings you may want to enable include larger text. 71 00:05:12,633 --> 00:05:13,983 I've had to do this myself. 72 00:05:14,403 --> 00:05:18,183 And I wanted to have all that landscape and all that area on the screen, but man. 73 00:05:18,603 --> 00:05:21,393 As I got older, I see that I've needed to have a little bit bigger. 74 00:05:21,573 --> 00:05:23,103 You can also make the texts bolder. 75 00:05:23,313 --> 00:05:29,703 You can use a magnifier or even a voiceover, and you can also adjust touch sensitivity and hold time. 76 00:05:30,243 --> 00:05:32,133 Now let's explore Android devices. 77 00:05:32,313 --> 00:05:36,153 I don't have an Android, but in prep for the show, I did find these instructions. 78 00:05:36,423 --> 00:05:42,183 So to customize options on an Android phone or tablet, number one, open the settings and scroll down to accessibility. 79 00:05:42,363 --> 00:05:43,203 I see a theme here. 80 00:05:43,233 --> 00:05:43,743 My friends. 81 00:05:44,103 --> 00:05:46,773 Choose categories like vision hearing. 82 00:05:47,133 --> 00:05:50,823 Interaction controls and advanced settings to view and enable accommodations. 83 00:05:51,213 --> 00:05:55,593 You can also activate features like magnification by quickly pressing your phone's volume keys. 84 00:05:55,593 --> 00:05:59,943 Again, I don't have an Android phone, but this is what it tells me in the instructions. 85 00:06:00,243 --> 00:06:07,263 So these options here include increasing tech scaling, changing display size, inverting colors, adding captions and a whole lot more 86 00:06:07,653 --> 00:06:11,223 for windows computers look under ease of access settings. 87 00:06:11,223 --> 00:06:12,993 I think that was a simple way to get to it. 88 00:06:13,263 --> 00:06:21,213 so you want to click on the windows, start button and select settings, choose ease of access to view and enable features, and you can customize your mouse. 89 00:06:21,453 --> 00:06:25,953 You can customize your keyboard, your audio display and your focus settings. 90 00:06:26,583 --> 00:06:30,963 Useful options under the windows operating system include a magnifier. 91 00:06:31,263 --> 00:06:35,283 a, narrator high contrast themes and closed captions. 92 00:06:35,683 --> 00:06:40,753 On a Mac book, computer click on the apple icon in the top left and select system preferences. 93 00:06:41,113 --> 00:06:42,043 And then it's pretty simple. 94 00:06:42,043 --> 00:06:53,023 Just click on accessibility and subcategories, like vision hearing, physical and motor will appear and you can adjust settings like zoom, speech, captions, keyboard, and a whole lot more. 95 00:06:53,413 --> 00:06:56,053 There are many great choices, including voiceover. 96 00:06:56,323 --> 00:06:57,823 Zoom switch control. 97 00:06:58,153 --> 00:07:00,103 And one of my favorites type to Siri. 98 00:07:01,183 --> 00:07:04,123 These are just some of the basics, but you get the idea. 99 00:07:04,573 --> 00:07:08,803 Take the time to familiarize yourself with what settings and options your devices have to offer. 100 00:07:09,313 --> 00:07:11,623 Exploring the accessibility menu on your device. 101 00:07:11,623 --> 00:07:13,303 Settings is a helpful place to start. 102 00:07:13,873 --> 00:07:18,913 You got to consider what accommodations would serve you well, based on your unique needs and we're all different. 103 00:07:19,663 --> 00:07:27,413 If some settings are confusing or overwhelming Ask a technology savvy friend, a family member or staff member to explain the options and help you get started. 104 00:07:27,743 --> 00:07:34,073 The truth is folks, the more familiar you become with what your product can do, the easier it will be to customize an optimal setup. 105 00:07:34,373 --> 00:07:39,743 So once you have accessibility features activated, it might take a little adjustment to make some new settings feel natural. 106 00:07:39,743 --> 00:07:41,153 I'll talk about that later in the show. 107 00:07:41,603 --> 00:07:45,203 You got to play around with your controls, your text size, your volume levels. 108 00:07:45,503 --> 00:07:49,073 And a whole lot more until you land on a configuration that works best for you. 109 00:07:49,553 --> 00:07:53,273 But you've got to keep an open mind and have a willingness to learn. 110 00:07:53,603 --> 00:07:59,453 Modifying your environment is well-worth effort to gain efficiency and independence. 111 00:08:00,053 --> 00:08:04,043 Also consider any new product purchases with accessibility at the front of your mind. 112 00:08:04,403 --> 00:08:06,863 If you're going to buy something new, these are things you want to look for. 113 00:08:07,133 --> 00:08:21,353 There are many devices and applications built specifically with inclusion and assistance features focused on empowering those with vision impairment, with a hearing difficulties, limited mobility or dexterity and other accommodation needs. 114 00:08:21,503 --> 00:08:27,563 But you have to do your research before buying electronics and factor these accessibility options into the standard. 115 00:08:27,563 --> 00:08:28,223 You look for. 116 00:08:28,713 --> 00:08:35,633 an investment on the front end in adaptive technology on mainstream devices with robust settings can save frustration down the road. 117 00:08:36,263 --> 00:08:37,553 Well, let me tell you what I just did. 118 00:08:37,823 --> 00:08:41,963 I use a Mac and just recently I added a second monitor for more desk space. 119 00:08:42,353 --> 00:08:46,223 I also have finally accepted the fact that I don't have the eyes of a 30 year old. 120 00:08:46,553 --> 00:08:49,673 So I added monitor arms, which allow me to move the monitor closer. 121 00:08:49,673 --> 00:08:52,973 And yes, I even tested making the text bigger. 122 00:08:53,333 --> 00:08:55,313 Yes, I'm getting to that middle age. 123 00:08:55,713 --> 00:08:56,133 In the end. 124 00:08:56,153 --> 00:09:04,403 I want to be comfortable and not strain my eyes, but I really had to get over myself and realize that these accessibility items are there for us to use. 125 00:09:04,733 --> 00:09:07,163 And I have to embrace this season of my journey. 126 00:09:07,343 --> 00:09:08,993 So I encourage you to do the same. 127 00:09:09,593 --> 00:09:14,183 As we wrap up today's episode, let's remember that God cares deeply about each and every one of us. 128 00:09:14,483 --> 00:09:18,263 He wants us to utilize resources available to enhance our quality of life. 129 00:09:18,833 --> 00:09:21,713 Every person has dignity and worth in his eyes. 130 00:09:22,013 --> 00:09:23,183 Now, listen, this is the truth. 131 00:09:23,483 --> 00:09:30,053 By law, many manufacturers must now include options to assist those who face impairments or situational limitations. 132 00:09:30,443 --> 00:09:37,733 Accessibility features represent progress towards a more inclusive world where information and technology are accessible to all. 133 00:09:38,183 --> 00:09:44,813 So I hope you feel empowered to explore the settings on your devices and find ways to optimize comfort and ease of use. 134 00:09:44,813 --> 00:09:46,073 And that is the key folks. 135 00:09:46,403 --> 00:09:49,463 Optimize your comfort and make it easy to use. 136 00:09:49,703 --> 00:09:53,813 There is such power and freedom that comes when tools function as they should. 137 00:09:54,263 --> 00:10:01,073 Maybe this small step towards better interaction with your devices spill over into confidence that displays God's hope at work within you. 138 00:10:01,433 --> 00:10:09,833 You are precious, you're capable and whole embraced by your creator for who you are with your unique gifts and needs. 139 00:10:10,133 --> 00:10:11,483 Our Abba father sees you. 140 00:10:11,483 --> 00:10:17,513 He hears you and he has solutions ready that open doors to fuller participation in activities. 141 00:10:17,513 --> 00:10:18,653 You truly enjoy. 142 00:10:18,983 --> 00:10:21,203 All you've got to do is ask for his help. 143 00:10:21,293 --> 00:10:22,853 God loves you so very much. 144 00:10:23,213 --> 00:10:26,993 So as we wrap up here are three steps you can take based on our discussion today. 145 00:10:27,203 --> 00:10:32,633 Number one, explore your device settings for accessibility features and learn what options are available to you. 146 00:10:32,783 --> 00:10:35,243 It's okay to play around with them and see if you like them. 147 00:10:35,753 --> 00:10:38,873 Enabling useful modifications is easier than you might think. 148 00:10:39,243 --> 00:10:39,963 Number two. 149 00:10:40,203 --> 00:10:43,653 Consider what accommodations would be most meaningful to you? 150 00:10:44,133 --> 00:10:50,373 Everyone's needs differ, reflect on what tweaks could boost independence and efficiency for you specifically. 151 00:10:50,793 --> 00:10:55,503 And number three, don't be afraid to ask for help customizing your tech set up. 152 00:10:55,713 --> 00:11:01,473 If you feel unsure about applying new settings, yourself, friends and experts are happy to guide you. 153 00:11:01,873 --> 00:11:10,783 Be sure to visit our podcast page at askralphpodcast.com for more great content about aligning your faith and finances and how to access the show notes for this episode. 154 00:11:11,233 --> 00:11:12,813 If this made an impact on you. 155 00:11:12,813 --> 00:11:18,403 I ask you to do me a favor and share with others who may benefit from learning about these device accessibility options. 156 00:11:18,643 --> 00:11:22,723 And as I always say, stay financially savvy and God bless. 157 00:11:22,813 --> 00:11:23,713 Have a great day. 158 00:11:25,413 --> 00:11:28,263 Outro: Thank you for joining us on the AskRalph podcast. 159 00:11:28,393 --> 00:11:32,033 And with a simple click to subscribe, we'll invite you back to our next episode. 160 00:11:32,213 --> 00:11:35,283 And remember, financial issues don't have to be complicated. 161 00:11:35,583 --> 00:11:36,623 Just AskRalph. 162 00:11:37,043 --> 00:11:42,653 The information contained in this episode of AskRalph is based on data available as of the date of its release. 163 00:11:42,713 --> 00:11:45,623 Saggio Accounting Plus and AskRalph Media Inc. 164 00:11:45,783 --> 00:11:49,133 is under no obligation to update this content if changes occur. 165 00:11:49,223 --> 00:11:59,873 Applying this information to your specific situation requires careful consideration of all facts and circumstances, and any information provided is not to be considered as financial, tax, or legal advice. 166 00:12:00,013 --> 00:12:03,963 Please consult your tax advisor or attorney before acting on any material covered.