In a world rapidly being reshaped by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and new technologies, the concept of disability is evolving. We recently spoke with Dr. Kirk Adams, a leading voice in disability and technology, about his personal journey, the evolution of assistive technology, and the immense potential—and critical risks—of Agentic AI.
From Kindergarten Blindness to Early Tech Adoption Dr. Adams’ personal story began when he became totally blind very quickly in kindergarten after both his retinas detached. Starting his education at the Oregon State School for the Blind, he started using technology immediately.
He learned Braille using a slant stylus and a Perkins Braille writer, and typed his assignments on a manual typewriter. He even recalls using two groundbreaking devices from the pre-1970 era:
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The Opticon (circa 1968): This was an electronic mechanical reading system that used a camera to scan a print document. The reader would place two index fingers on small pads, and electronic pins would vibrate to replicate the form of the print, allowing him to “feel” the text.
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The Mini-Guide: This sonar-type wayfinding device, about the size of a large flashlight, would provide different tones based on how far away an object was, helping him distinguish his environment, like the seats and aisles in an auditorium.
The Evolution of “Disability”
Dr. Adams clarifies that having an impairment, such as a visual impairment, does not mean a person is always in a “disabling situation”. Technology allows people with disabilities to “customize the fit with the world”.
As he explains, if he is running a board meeting with his agenda and reports in Braille, his visual impairment does not put him in a disabling situation, and he can run the meeting as effectively as a sighted person. However, if given a stack of print materials, he cannot run the meeting because his impairment cannot interact with that environmental element. Technology, therefore, is the crucial tool that allows people to interact with the digital and social environments they need.
The Promises and Perils of AI
Dr. Adams sees an “exponential” acceleration in technology, particularly with the development of Artificial Intelligence.
The Benefits: AI holds great promise for cutting through barriers, bringing ease of functions and activities, and helping people with disabilities avoid extra steps and inaccessible formats.
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Independent Transportation: The thought of autonomous vehicles is “super exciting” for the blindness community, as transportation is a prominent barrier to inclusion.
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Agentic AI: This is seen as the “next big leap forward”. Agentic AI could replace the need for human personal assistants by autonomously supporting tasks like paying bills and filling out medical forms. Critically, this grants a layer of privacy that is often sacrificed when relying on friends or human readers.
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Image Description: Current innovations, such as the built-in image description in Meta Ray-Ban glasses and Microsoft’s open-source app, are making visual information instantly accessible.
The Risks (Bias): A major concern is the risk of bias in AI systems. Dr. Adams shared an example where an AI tool suggested the top three best careers for blind people were the stereotypical jobs of assistive technology specialist, massage therapist, or musician.
The root of this bias is data underrepresentation. People with disabilities use technology less than people without disabilities, meaning their “lived experience is underrepresented in the data that undergirds… these AI tools”.
One organization, Be My Eyes, is tackling this by passing data from their Be My AI tool (in partnership with Microsoft) to build a data set specifically around the use of visual information for blind people. Dr. Adams emphasized the need for systemic solutions to ensure AI improves the lives of everybody. Addressing the Employment Gap
One of Dr. Adams’ primary focuses is the disability employment gap. He noted the stark difference in the U.S. workforce: only 35% of people with significant disabilities are employed, compared to 70% of the general population.
Much of this is due to employer attitudes, misperceptions, and a lack of understanding of the tools and techniques used by disabled employees. Furthermore, employers often miss out on the unique strengths developed by people who overcome constant challenges, such as:
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Resilience
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Creative Problem Solving
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Grit and Perseverance
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Analyzing and Managing Risk
Dr. Adams is working to change these perceptions, specifically through programs like the Apex Program, which prepares blind people for entry-level jobs in cyber security. The core challenge is creating exposure, often by physically taking employers to see blind people successfully using computers and accessible technology in knowledge-based work.
The Call to Action
For a more inclusive world, Dr. Adams advises individuals and employers to take a simple first step: Connect and Engage.
He recommends:
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Identify an impairment that resonates with you (e.g., hearing loss, visual impairment).
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Search online for local organizations, associations, or advocacy groups related to that impairment.
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Sign up for their newsletter, attend a meeting, or even call to arrange a tour. These organizations are 110% welcoming to those interested in learning more.
By joining the community and intersecting with new dynamics, everyone can contribute to fostering a greater understanding of people with disabilities.
To learn more about Dr. Kirk Adams’ work, visit his website at drkirkadams.com or connect with him on LinkedIn at https://dub.sh/qpNsu2O
Watch the full episode here: https://dub.sh/gWfT5Io
