Small and large metal type signature guides for vision impaired persons
Vision impaired persons can use a commercial signature guide that is approximately the size of a credit card, made of plastic or metal and has a rectangular cutout in the middle.
This type of signature guide is available in rigid and flexible versions.
A friend or a family member can line up the signature guide with the writing line, which will allow the vision impaired person to sign the name independently in the writing space. If you have low vision, this type of signature guide is usually black or darker-colored and provides good contrast with white or light-colored
Paper.
You can also create your own signature guide. There are many ways to create your own signature guide:
Ask a family member or a friend to make a sharp crease in the paper along the writing space. This will provide a tactile raised writing line to help guide your signature placement.
Place 2-3 layered “Post-it” notes along the writing line to make it easier to locate and feel. Write your name just above the “Post-its” and remove them when you are done.
Ask a family member or a friend to place the upper edge of a credit card just below the writing line. This will provide a raised writing line to help guide your signature placement.
Use the index and middle fingers of your non-writing hand to form a “V.” Place your hand forming the “V” palms down and sideways on the paper so that your index finger is directly below the entire writing line and your middle finger is angled above the line. Sign your name above your index finger and stay inside the “V” to help guide your signature placement.
Ask a family member or friend to cut a rectangular opening in either an expired credit or debit card, a facsimile credit card that is frequently sent with card offers, or a piece of cardboard cut to the size of a credit card. The opening should be 1/2″ by approximately 3″. Use this template in the same way
You would use a commercial signature guide.
If you have low vision, ask a family member or friend to use a marker pen and darken the writing line for you. This will make the signature line easier for you to see.
Please note: Before you sign any important document, ask a trusted friend or family member to read it to you before you add your signature.
The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon ICT Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities is equipped with signature guides and many more assistive devices for persons with disabilities.
Video:
Manique Gunaratne
Vice Chair Person – South Asian Disability Forum
