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SHAPES: Enhancing Accessibility

The purpose of this page is to provide a comprehensive overview of the various initiatives undertaken by the Smart and Healthy Ageing through People Engaging in Supportive Systems (SHAPES) project, with a specific focus on its commitment to accessibility. As a cornerstone of the project’s mission, accessibility informs the design, implementation, and evaluation of all SHAPES initiatives. This commitment manifests in tangible solutions aimed at enhancing the lives of older adults and individuals with disabilities.

 #SHAPES Stories

In the #SHAPES Stories initiative, accessibility is at the heart of the narrative. By offering insights into the lives of older individuals, this platform emphasizes the importance of understanding and catering to the unique needs and aspirations of an aging population. As older people recount their experiences, hopes, and concerns, it underscores the essential role of technology and services tailored to their specific requirements. Through the collaborative efforts of professionals across Europe, from caregivers to technicians, SHAPES champions the integration of high-quality health, social care, and innovative technology to enhance accessibility and quality of life for older individuals and their communities. Here are some examples of accessibility focused stories from our list of SHAPES Stories.

SHAPES Digital Solutions

At SHAPES we developed a number of accessibility solutions that focused on improving the lives of participants with access needs. Please view the below curated selection of News items relating to the SHAPES digital solutions.

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The Importance of Accessibility to SHAPES:

The SHAPES project recognizes that accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it’s a fundamental principle of inclusivity. Accessibility aligns with the project’s core mission of improving the lives of older people and individuals who may be underserved due to various factors. By ensuring that their website is accessible, SHAPES opens the door for a wider audience to engage with their research, resources, and solutions.

SHAPES acknowledges that accessibility extends beyond compliance. It’s about embracing diversity and creating an environment where everyone can participate equally. The project understands that seniors and individuals with disabilities bring unique perspectives and experiences that can enrich our research and innovations. By prioritising accessibility, SHAPES showcases its commitment to fostering a more inclusive society and promoting active participation for all.

Key Accessibility Features on the SHAPES Website:

  1. Screen Reader Compatibility: The SHAPES website is designed to be compatible with screen readers, which convert on-screen text into synthesized speech. This feature ensures that individuals with visual impairments can effectively navigate the site’s content, comprehend its information, and interact with its features.
  2. Keyboard Navigation: Some individuals may have difficulty using a mouse, but the SHAPES website caters to their needs by implementing keyboard navigation. This ensures that users can navigate through the website’s pages, menus, and interactive elements using only keyboard inputs.
  3. Alt Text for Images: All images on the SHAPES website are accompanied by descriptive alt text. This feature benefits individuals with visual impairments by conveying the content and purpose of images, which they might not be able to perceive visually.
  4. Text Resizing and Contrast: The website allows users to adjust text size to their preference, catering to those with visual challenges. Moreover, the site maintains a suitable contrast between text and background, making it easier for individuals with low vision or color blindness to read content.
  5. Captioned Videos: Videos featured on the SHAPES website are equipped with closed captions, benefiting users who are deaf or hard of hearing. This ensures that everyone can access and understand the video content, regardless of their auditory abilities.
  6. Clear and Consistent Layout: The website’s layout is designed to be clear and consistent, aiding users with cognitive disabilities in comprehending the site’s structure and content organization.

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