Access to the Disabled and aging Markets

Accessible websites naturally have a wider market as they accommodate a broader range of people. Both the number and proportion of people with disabilities is growing.

Numbers

Within the European Union alone it is estimated that the number of people with speech and language or cognitive impairments ranges between 2 million and 5 million.

Disabled

In Ireland over 8% of individuals have some form of impairment. 2% of the population are either blind or deaf and almost 4.5% have a condition which substantially limits at least one basic physical activity. Almost 3% have difficulty in learning, remembering or concentrating (Census, 2000 / CSO 2004). Once they find a Web site that accommodates their particular needs, disabled web users often become loyal customers and therefore having an accessible website can increase both audience retention levels and sales.

aging

The proportion of the EU-25 population over 65 has risen from 10% to 16% since 1960. In the 1960s, the life expectancy of a man was 67.4 years, and that of women was 72.9. Current life expectancy in EU-15 countries may be as high as 78 years for men and 83 years for women. Increased life expectancy means that more people are likely to have age-related disabilities, such as visual and aural impairments and dexterity problems.

demographic change

Fertility levels in the EU are below replacement levels further adding to the demographic change. In addition, the increased survival rate of children with severe disabilities has also added to the disabled numbers. Eighty per cent of children born prior to the 26th week of gestation, weighing 700 grams or less developed physical or mental disabilities by age 6. Some of the children were extremely disabled and required life-long care.

disabilities, aging & the internet

48 percent of disabled individuals claim that the Internet has significantly improved their quality of life. People with disabilities spend, on average, 30 hours per week online. This compares to 18 hours per week for those without disabilities.

In addition, accessible websites facilitate the retention of current customers and staff as they age. By the time of retirement age, at 65, most people have lost at least some of their visual ability, including focusing on objects, resolving images, distinguishing between colours and adapting to changes in light.