Systems and processes for activating a screen reading program are disclosed. One process can include receiving a request to activate the screen reading program and prompting the user to perform an action to confirm the request. The action can include a making swiping gesture, shaking the device, covering a proximity sensor, tapping a display, or the like. In some examples, the confirming action must be received within a time limit or the input can be ignored. In response to receipt of the confirmation (e.g., within the time limit), the screen reading program can be activated. The time limit can be identified using audible notifications at the start and end of the time limit. In another example, a device can detect an event associated with a request to activate a screen reading program. The event can be detected at any time to cause the device to activate the screen reading program.