Accommodation: Color Contrast Overlays

AT-A-GLANCE
Challenge Type: Vision / Low Vision
Accommodation Type: Task Aids & Tools
Summary: Color Contrast Overlays assist individuals with visual impairments by enhancing text-background contrast for easier reading. Made of transparent plastic or acetate in various colors, they can be placed over books, documents, or screens, benefiting those with conditions like dyslexia.

Table of contents

What is Color Contrast Overlays?

Color Contrast Overlays, also known as colored overlays or tinted sheets, are transparent colored filters placed over text or screens to improve visual clarity and reduce eye strain. These overlays enhance the contrast between text and background, making reading easier for individuals with visual processing difficulties, dyslexia, or light sensitivity. By adjusting the color contrast, users can experience less visual fatigue and improved focus, which supports better reading comprehension and comfort. These overlays come in various colors and shades to suit different needs, offering a simple yet effective accommodation for those who struggle with standard black-on-white text or harsh lighting conditions.

Who Benefits

  • People with visual processing challenges, dyslexia, or light sensitivity who find standard text difficult to read.
  • Anyone who experiences eye strain or headaches from prolonged reading or screen use.

How to Use Color Contrast Overlays Effectively

Place the overlay directly on printed materials or computer screens, selecting a color that reduces glare and improves text visibility. Test different colors to find the most comfortable option for the user. Clean overlays regularly with a soft cloth to maintain clarity and replace them if scratched or damaged. Incorporate overlays into daily reading or screen time routines to maximize their benefits and reduce visual fatigue over time.

Key Considerations

  • Overlays are generally low-cost and can be purchased online or at specialty stores.
  • Suitable for both remote work setups and in-office environments, adaptable to printed and digital materials.
  • Supports compliance with accessibility guidelines such as the ADA by improving information access.

Disclo Makes Implementation Simple

Disclo streamlines requests, documentation, and tracking for Color Contrast Overlays, so HR teams and employees spend less time on paperwork and more time working productively.

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