Anyone who has purchased a computer, TV, camera or cell phone in the last ten years immediately understands the meaning of “changing technology.” Electronic devices used to last ten to 20 years, if not longer. Today, rapid advances in computer and electronic manufacturing render many of these devices obsolete in one year. Help When Low Vision Is a Problem
What about advances in optical devices and assistive technology? Let’s first consider a person with less-than-perfect vision who must rely on optical aids beyond regular glasses, such as a hand magnifier, to function on a daily basis. Familiar, simple-to-use and widely available, the hand magnifier has been around for centuries. We have all tried one at some point in our lives. With no buttons or batteries, repairs are seldom necessary. Such features make a hand magnifier acceptable to most people with low vision.
Let’s now fast-forward to the 21st century. A person with less-than-perfect vision will be able to rely on electronic magnification devices and computers — both responsible for the greatest leap forward in visual aid technology in history. Hand-held video magnifiers (closed circuit televisions — CCTVs), electronic stand magnifiers, computer text readers and voice-recognition technology are rapidly “invading” the low vision marketplace. Prices are falling and availability is rising as these devices become more reliable and easier to use.
How does a person with low vision keep up with the constant changes? Here are some suggestions to help you benefit from, and cope with, the changing technology of low vision devices.
Know what you need: A low vision assessment by a professional is essential to evaluate your needs and capabilities. Special tests discover strengths and weaknesses in your visual system, and are the basis for prescribing and choosing the most suitable vision aids. A vision rehabilitation professional can help narrow your search and keep you abreast of new technology on the market.
Financial help: Financial assistance may be offered for some of the more costly high-tech devices. Contact your local or state rehabilitation agency for advice on financial assistance.
Research on the Internet: The Internet is a great resource, connecting buyers and sellers for hard-to-find items. Many Web sites gather and organize lists of high-tech device manufacturers in an accessible format — and do the research for you.
Check out: www.visionconnection.org, or www.lowvision.org.
Try before you buy: You can often arrange to test equipment through your vision rehabilitation center, the product retailer, or even the equipment manufacturer. At the very least, bring your own reading or hobby materials to a store selling the device you’re interested in and try it there. After all, you wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive first!
Computers are invaluable: Using a computer is probably the best low vision aid imaginable — it’s the gateway to a world of information and communication in a format that can be seen, printed or heard by people who are visually impaired. Words can be enlarged on screen, printed in bigger letters, read aloud by a computer and tailored to your specific needs. Encyclopedias full of information, books, recipes, e-mail, banking, shopping and more are at your fingertips using a basic computer with an Internet connection. Learn to use a computer!
Conquer your fears: Don’t be afraid of change. With the right attitude, plus professional guidance and support from friends and family, you can adopt new technology and adapt over time. Advancing technology is making low vision devices less complicated and easier to use — not harder.
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Contributor's Note
All too often we take new technology for granted, being blind or visually impaired makes technology difficult to understand and use. Is smaller really better?
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