Optimizing accessibility for vision loss

Ensure the underlying code order matches the visual flow of information. Avoid using CSS positioning or layout properties that rearrange content visually without also updating its sequence in the code.

Why? A screen reader processes the code, not the visual display. For users with low vision who can still perceive the layout, a mismatch between what they see and hear can be disorienting and increase cognitive load. This confusion can make simple tasks more prone to errors and difficult for people with low vision and vision loss.

Structure content using a clear heading hierarchy (<h1>, <h2>, etc.) to create a logical outline. Define the primary regions of your interface—such as the navigation, main content area, and footer—using landmark elements.

Why? Screen reader users depend on headings and landmarks to understand the layout or quickly move to relevant sections. Without a proper structure, they are forced to listen to all the content, turning a quick search into a long and tedious task. This auditory fatigue makes it difficult to build a mental map of the interface and efficiently navigate to relevant sections.

Every interactive or informative element, such as buttons, links, icons, form fields, and images, needs to have a clear and unique accessible name. For complex elements like charts, add extra descriptions to ensure screen reader users receive the same guidance as those navigating visually.

Why? An element without a clear, accessible name leaves users unaware of its function, leading to confusion and errors. Missing additional descriptions for complex data prevent users from accessing the same key information as users navigating visually. This can make it difficult to understand the content fully.

Ensure the keyboard focus order is logical and that no interactive elements are skipped. Content that updates dynamically (like status messages or search results) should clearly announce these changes to the user without unexpectedly moving their focus.

Why? Screen reader users often combine two modes of navigation: tabbing through interactive elements and moving through content line-by-line with arrow keys. This dual-mode navigation breaks down when the focus order is inconsistent or elements are skipped. Users can become disoriented, miss critical information, or get trapped in a component with no keyboard-accessible way out, making the interface feel unreliable and difficult to use.

For repeating components, ensure identical links or buttons have unique accessible names that provide necessary context. Instead of multiple generic labels like "Read More" or "Edit," the accessible name should specify the item it relates to, such as "Read More about Accessibility Services" or "Edit Profile Information."

Why? Many screen reader users navigate by selecting a category of elements, such as links, headings, or form controls, to find what they need quickly. However, this method becomes ineffective when the element’s labels are generic and identical. The user then has to painstakingly sift through surrounding content to understand each item's context, turning a quick process into an inefficient experience.