Our Commitment to Accessibility

The Downsizing Journey Financial Calculator is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone and applying the relevant accessibility standards.

AODA Compliance

This website has been designed to comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and meets the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA standards.

Our commitment to accessibility is aligned with Ontario's goal of making the province fully accessible by 2025.

Accessibility Features

We have implemented the following accessibility features:

Visual Accessibility

• High Contrast Colors: Black, gold, and white color scheme designed for optimal readability
• Text Size: Base font size of 16px with increased line height for comfortable reading
• Resizable Text: Text can be enlarged up to 200% without loss of functionality
• Color Contrast Ratios: All text meets WCAG 2.0 Level AA contrast requirements (4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text)
• Large Text and Buttons: Senior-friendly design with generous sizing for all interactive elements

Keyboard Navigation

• Full Keyboard Access: All functionality is available using keyboard only
• Logical Tab Order: Tab navigation follows a logical sequence through all interactive elements
• Visible Focus Indicators: Clear visual indication of which element has keyboard focus
• Skip Navigation: Ability to bypass repetitive navigation elements

Screen Reader Compatibility

• Semantic HTML: Proper use of headings, labels, and ARIA attributes
• Alternative Text: Descriptive alt text for all images and visual elements
• Form Labels: Clear, explicit labels for all form inputs
• Error Messages: Screen reader-accessible error identification and suggestions
• Page Titles: Descriptive titles for all pages

Content and Navigation

• Clear Language: Plain language and simple explanations for financial concepts
• Consistent Layout: Predictable navigation and page structure throughout
• No Time Limits: Users can complete calculations at their own pace
• Error Prevention: Clear validation messages and opportunities to correct inputs
• Mobile Responsive: Fully functional on various devices and screen sizes

Senior-Friendly Design

Recognizing our primary audience is homeowners aged 50+, we have implemented design considerations specific to older adults:

• Larger font sizes (minimum 16px base size)
• Generous spacing between clickable elements
• Clear, calm color palette reducing visual strain
• Step-by-step progression with clear instructions
• Minimal use of complex animations or distracting elements
• Help text and explanations readily available

Browser Compatibility and Assistive Technology

This website is compatible with:

• Current and recent versions of major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
• Screen readers including JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver
• Keyboard-only navigation
• Browser zoom functionality (up to 200%)
• Voice recognition software

Known Limitations

Despite our best efforts, there may be some accessibility limitations. We are actively working to address any issues and improve accessibility:

• Some complex financial charts may require additional context for screen reader users
• Third-party embedded content may not fully meet accessibility standards

Feedback and Assistance

We welcome feedback on the accessibility of the Downsizing Journey Financial Calculator. If you encounter accessibility barriers or have suggestions for improvement:

Testing and Evaluation

This website has been evaluated for accessibility using:

• Automated accessibility testing tools
• Manual testing with keyboard navigation
• Screen reader testing (NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)
• Color contrast analyzers
• User testing with individuals with disabilities

Continuous Improvement

Accessibility is an ongoing commitment. We regularly:

• Review and update our accessibility practices
• Train our team on accessibility best practices
• Monitor for new accessibility standards and guidelines
• Test new features and updates for accessibility compliance
• Incorporate user feedback into accessibility improvements

Accessibility Standards and Regulations

This website strives to comply with:

• AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act): Information and Communications Standard
• WCAG 2.0 Level AA: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
• Ontario Human Rights Code: Duty to accommodate persons with disabilities

Additional Resources

For more information about web accessibility and your rights:

• Accessibility Directorate of Ontario: ontario.ca/accessibility
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): w3.org/WAI