How Labels Create Confusion For Screen Reader Users

For people who use screen readers, digital content can either be smooth and informative or suddenly confusing. It usually comes down to one thing: labels. When labels are missing, vague, or used in the wrong way, the entire experience can unravel. What is meant to be a simple click turns into a frustrating guessing game. These are not just tiny errors—they can block someone from finishing a task or getting the information they came for.

Accessibility laws like Section 508 and the European Accessibility Act (EAA) expect websites to be clear and easy to navigate for everyone, including people using assistive technology. That means labels on buttons, forms, icons, and links cannot just look right visually. They need to make sense when spoken aloud by screen readers. If they do not, users may skip over them, press something they did not mean to, or give up entirely.

Common Labeling Mistakes That Disrupt Screen Readers

Labels are more than a visual aid. They carry meaning, especially for assistive tech. Yet it is easy to overlook how that meaning is conveyed—or not. Many websites are filled with user interface elements that appear clear to sighted users but confuse screen reader users. This disconnect usually comes down to a few common mistakes.

Here are some of the most frequent issues:

1. Unlabeled or poorly labeled buttons

– If a button only contains a visual icon, like a magnifying glass for search or a gear icon for settings, screen readers cannot guess its function unless it is properly labeled.

– When developers forget to define the button in the code or use vague text like “click here,” it leads to confusion and incorrect interactions.

2. Links that do not explain their purpose

– Screen readers often gather all the links on a page by name. If several links just say “learn more,” the user cannot tell where each one leads.

– Each link should provide context, such as “learn more about billing options” or “read the full accessibility report.”

3. Mismatched or missing label/input connections in forms

– Many accessibility issues appear in forms. If a text field is not clearly labeled or not connected to its label in code, a screen reader may skip the field or announce the wrong input.

– Fields like name, email, or address must be accurately labeled and programmatically tied to the input element.

4. No ARIA labels where needed

– ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes are especially useful for custom components like sliders, modals, and tab panels.

– If ARIA labels or roles are missing or unclear, screen readers cannot interpret those elements properly, and users might not even know they are there.

These kinds of errors often go unnoticed during visual tests but seriously affect users who rely on assistive tech. They interfere with how people access content, and over time, this frustration can drive users away.

Labeling issues are found across industries, from media and education to banking and healthcare. On a mobile banking app, for example, a toggle to switch off paper statements might be invisible to a blind user if not properly labeled. That can leave users feeling frustrated or unable to manage their personal accounts.

Incorrect labels do more than affect user experience—they may also result in failing to meet legal obligations under Section 508 or the EAA. Creating screen reader-friendly labels is not just about edge cases. It is about building platforms that are truly usable for everyone.

Auditing and Fixing Labeling Issues to Meet Section 508 and EAA Standards

Complying with Section 508 and EAA requirements does not mean rebuilding from the ground up. Most labeling issues are tied to how elements are coded or connected. When teams know what to look for, these issues can be identified and fixed systematically across websites and apps.

The recommended steps include:

– Reviewing interactive elements for incomplete, missing, or unclear labels

– Confirming all form fields are connected to clear and descriptive labels

– Applying ARIA roles or labels where native HTML falls short

– Running screen reader tests on both desktop and mobile devices

– Verifying that labels describe what the element does, not just how it looks

User1st offers development-time tools that help teams identify and correct labeling problems. These scans can pinpoint whether a button lacks a label, if a form field is improperly linked, or whether ARIA roles are missing. This actionable feedback helps developers focus their time on making changes that matter.

User1st’s platform also supports code-level audits and fixers, streamlined into development workflows. Embedding accessibility checks into dev tools or continuous integration pipelines helps ensure issues are resolved early and efficiently. This proactive approach prevents common errors from recurring and saves time during future updates.

Why Labels Are a Human Right, Not Just a Rule

When a user cannot hear or understand what a label means, they are being excluded. A sighted user can easily tap a button or fill in a form. A screen reader user, on the other hand, needs those elements to be named properly. If not, they may not be able to apply for a job, refill a prescription, or check their bank account.

Everyone should be able to access online content consistently. Clear, descriptive labels allow screen reader users to engage with websites confidently and without barriers. Good labels make digital tools more intuitive and help reduce the cognitive effort for users who rely on assistive tech every day.

Standards like the EAA and Section 508 are in place to make sure digital spaces are equitable. They are not just technical requirements—they represent a commitment to inclusion. They ensure that fields, buttons, links, and modals communicate their purpose clearly to all users.

Compliance is not just a one-time task. As sites evolve and content shifts, accessibility must remain part of the ongoing process. Regularly reviewing and improving labels should be part of every development cycle. Keeping up with changes in accessibility guidance helps protect organizations while ensuring users never feel left behind.

Meaningful digital labels do not stand in the way. They invite everyone in.

Accessibility matters now more than ever. Ensuring your digital content complies with requirements like Section 508 web accessibility protects your business and strengthens user trust. User1st provides the tools you need to navigate these standards effectively. Empower your team to create a more inclusive digital environment today.