According to the Braille Institute, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and cataracts are the most common causes of vision loss in the U.S. Some visually impaired individuals are completely blind while others still have partial vision. Although living with a visual impairment can be challenging, there are many products available that can help you to remain independent.
Mobility Aids
Traveling is often one of the most frustrating challenges associated with vision loss. You may be reluctant to travel on your own if you are afraid of falling or injuring yourself on unseen surfaces. Using a mobility aid like a cane can help give you the confidence to travel alone. Canes have a handle on the top, a reflective shaft and a tip on the bottom to help you detect objects in your path.
Visual Aids
If you have partial sight, certain visual aid products may help improve your ability to read and write. Some printed materials are available in large-print sizes that may be easier to see. Paper with bold, wide-spaced or raised lines may make it easier to write. If you suffer from complete blindness you can get most of your print materials in braille. Magnifiers are available as small, hand-held devices, larger desktop viewers or reading glasses. These products magnify the printed words and images on various documents, prescription labels and photographs.
Talking Products
Talking products may be useful if you suffer from complete vision loss or if trying to read even large print material strains your eyes. Optical character recognition (OCR) software and specialized computer scanners can read printed material to you out loud. Most printed materials are also available in audio formats that you can listen to instead of read. Talking clocks, watches, caller-I.D. devices, oven timers and thermometers can help you retrieve information right when you need it.
Household Products
If you live alone, you may have trouble finding things, reading buttons and even fixing your own meals. Fortunately there are many products that can help increase your ability to function at home. Using containers with large print labels to organize your belongings can help you keep track of where and what things are. You can also get products like remote controls and calculators with large easy-to-see buttons. Making meals can be easier with special kitchen utensils equipped with safety guards and liquid level indicators. These products can help protect you from frustrating spills and recurring injuries.
Emotional Aspects
Thanks to advances in modern technology, people who are visually impaired can enjoy more independence than ever before. However, emotional roadblocks can limit you even more than your physical condition. Feeling embarrassed about your visual impairment may discourage you from taking advantage of the many products available. You may refrain from traveling alone if you are self-conscious about using a cane. You may feel the need to prove to yourself and others that you do not need help. While it may take awhile to get used to, taking advantage of these products can help improve your confidence and your quality of life.
