Almost all Canadians with disabilities or long-term conditions use some form of information and communication technology (ICT), including smart phones, tablets, laptops and desktops, traditional television or other devices, but barriers to accessibility persist. Notably, in 2024, almost half (45%) of persons with disabilities or long-term conditions reported having faced barriers in their online activities because of their condition.
In addition, over half (57%) of persons with disabilities or long-term conditions faced barriers when using at least one ICT. This percentage increased to 74% among those who experienced greater difficulty with their daily activities due to their condition.
Persons with disabilities or long-term conditions who experience barriers to accessibility are defined as those who have difficulties with the components of ICT, including websites, software, electronic devices and mobile applications. Barriers to using ICT include, among others, lack of text alternatives or closed captioning on an online content platform; lack of options to adjust colour, text size or font on websites; difficulty holding or using remote controls; machines lacking speech input features, and access to adaptive features being prevented by poor Internet connectivity.
The findings presented in this release are based on results from the Survey Series on Accessibility – Experiences with Accessibility and Information and Communication Technology, which provides a snapshot of the experiences of persons with disabilities or long-term conditions while navigating ICT-related barriers. The Accessible Canada Act supports the development of a barrier-free Canada across seven different priority areas, including ICT, which encompasses everything we use to interact online, as well as more traditional technologies. ICT plays a key role in modern life, as it enables social interaction and facilitates access to health care, education and employment.
Contact information
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