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Assistive tools (zoom text, bump dots, reading stand, playing cards, lighted megrx)

Along with medical devices for low vision, there are a wide range of other products out there designed to provide assistance to patients with low vision for a variety of tasks.

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Assistive Devices for Low Vision

Whether due to conditions associated with age such as macular degeneration, injuries, or development issues are the root cause of your low vision, it can be frustrating.

Today, however, there is a great deal of innovation when it comes to products designed to help you regain the independence you had before the onset of low vision, and enjoy those same activities again.

While many would be more familiar with general low vision devices such as magnifying glasses and prism lenses, there are other tools designed to assist low vision patients, often with specific tasks or activities.

Types of Assistive Devices

Bump Dots

These are adhesive labelers which can come in a range of sizes and colors. They enable easy identification of key items or locations on an item (such as the buttons on an oven or microwave). This allows a person with low vision to confidently interact with the object without needing to put on glasses or rely on outside help. With any colors, including clear, available, bump dots allow some measure of creativity to make daily life easier and more enjoyable.

Playing Cards

Playing cards remain popular with many people, but they can be tough to play with if you have low vision. These cards feature jumbo sized markings to make it easy for a person with low vision to read the number and see the card’s suit, allowing for easy play.

 

Reading Stands

Reading stands are small, standing devices which allow the user to place their reading material at an ideal height and angle for reading. These work well with standing magnifiers, as they can easily position the book, magazine, or other reading material so that the magnifier will function properly.

Zoom Text Magnifier/Reader

ZoomText Magnifier is a program you can purchase for your computer or other device that is designed to enlarge and enhance everything on your screen, making it easier to use your computer. ZoomText Magnifier/Reader goes a step beyond, providing other services such as echoing your typing and program activity, along with reading pages or documents aloud, for added convenience.

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Common Questions

The most common assistive technology for individuals with limited vision is screen readers. These software applications read the text on a screen aloud, allowing visually impaired users to understand content on computers, tablets, or smartphones. A low vision eye doctor can often recommend specific screen readers or other tools tailored to an individual's needs, allowing them to access digital information more effectively.
For low vision students, technology such as magnification software, Braille displays, and screen readers are often used. These technologies work in tandem to provide access to educational materials. A low vision optometrist may work with educators to tailor these tools to the student's specific visual impairment, facilitating more efficient learning.
Bump dots are tactile markers used by visually impaired individuals to identify objects by touch. They can be placed on keys of a keyboard, appliance buttons, or other everyday items to make them easily distinguishable. When paired with guidance from a low vision optometrist, they can be an essential aid in daily living.
Screen readers are software applications that convert digital text into synthesized speech, enabling visually impaired users to understand content on various devices. The software navigates the text and interprets it as audible language, often including descriptions of graphics and text formatting. Consulting with a low vision optometrist can help to identify the most suitable screen reader for an individual's specific needs.
Reading stands for low vision are supportive devices designed to hold reading materials at an optimal distance and angle. They often include features such as magnification and adjustable lighting. By consulting with a low vision eye doctor, the reading stand can be customized to a user's specific visual requirements, enhancing comfort and accessibility while reading.
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Summary

Having low vision doesn’t mean you have to give up doing the things you love. Along with more broad vision aids, more specialized assistive tools are readily available to help you increase your quality of life and retain your independence. If you are experiencing low vision, and would like to schedule a low vision eye exam, or have other questions, you can reach out to your nearest Amplify EyeCare practice either via a call or in-person visit. Our team of eye care professionals is ready and equipped to provide you with the care you need.

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