Neurodiversity simply means that everyone’s brain works a bit differently.
For most people, who are neurotypical, these differences are often small. But if you’re neurodivergent, perhaps having autism, ADHD, or dyslexia, these differences are much more pronounced.
In the UK, about 1 in 7 people are neurodivergent and experience this unique way of processing information. These differences can be a real asset, like being really creative or focusing well on tasks. But they can also make websites tough to use, like getting sidetracked by flashy ads or struggling with busy backgrounds
We can adapt web design to make the online world a more welcoming space that embraces these differences.
Neurodivergent conditions and web accessibility improvements
These are common examples of neurodivergent conditions, along with suggested web accessibility improvements to better accommodate them.
Autism
Autism affects about 1 in 100 people and comes with its own set of benefits and challenges. The condition often grants high levels of focus and keen attention to detail. On the flip side, it can make sensory experiences overwhelming and social interactions challenging. To support those with autism:
- offer ways to customise sensory settings, like the ability to turn off animations and ensure sounds don’t autoplay
- keep layout and design simple and predictable
- reduce flashy animations and other distractions such as lots of bright colours
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
ADHD affects about 4% of people and offers a unique blend of creativity and the ability to hyperfocus. The downside involves issues with maintaining attention and being organised. To make your website user-friendly for those with ADHD:
- use simple and clear headings
- break down information into digestible chunks such as using bullet points
- keep language simple when giving instructions
- use just one clear call-to-action per section to make choices easier
Dyscalculia
Around 6% of people have dyscalculia, which makes working with numbers challenging. On the positive side, it can enhance creative problem-solving. To help users:
- round values to the nearest whole number and avoid decimals
- provide ample spacing around numbers to prevent visual confusion
- provide calculators or other tools to assist with numerical tasks
Dyslexia
About 1 in 10 people face difficulties in reading and language processing due to dyslexia. However, it can also boost creativity and unique thinking. To assist those with dyslexia:
- use dark text on a light background, but avoid pure white
- stick to a single, solid colour for backgrounds and avoid using patterns or images
- align text to the left and avoid justifying it, as justification creates uneven gaps between words that can make reading difficult
- keep sentences short, aim for 60 to 70 characters
- set the font size between 16px and 19px
- choose a simple sans serif font like Arial or Verdana
Dyspraxia
Affecting 6% of the population, dyspraxia leads to issues with motor coordination and planning. It also often enhances creativity and innovative problem-solving. To make your website more accessible:
- use large clickable buttons with plenty of space around them
- avoid hover-over menus, as they can be tricky to navigate
- use increased space for form fields.
Summary
By tailoring web design to the unique needs of each common neurodivergent condition, your website can become more inclusive. These specific changes not only make the site better for those directly affected but also create a more user-friendly online environment for everyone.
