(courtesy of Telesensory - 1-800-804-8004 www.telesensory.com <http://www.telesensory.com>)
1. Each state has at least one library that offers Talking Books programs and large print publications. Ask if these is an Outreach Librarian in your area to serve patrons with special needs.
2. Many banks offer large print checks.
3. There are many states and local services for the blind and visually impaired. Some provide payment for low vision devices. Ask about rehabilitation teachers, occupational therapists or counselors, and orientation and mobility instructors. Ask if there are doctors in your area who provide low vision services.
4. There may be low vision support groups in your area.
5. Your local utility company may be able to provide discounted directory assistance and large type billing.
6. The Department of Motor Vehicles or Secretary of State can give you information about restricted licenses and handicapped parking permits.
7. Many public transit systems offer discounted or free service for the visually impaired.
8. Meals on Wheels offers home-delivered meals.
9. The U.S. Post Office offers free postage under special conditions with a certificate of blindness.
10. The Internal Revenue Service provides some tax exemptions for the legally blind.
11. Your local media may offer large print newspapers, reading services, or cable TV descriptive video services.
There are many products available to help people with low vision make the best use of their remaining sight. The major categories of these products are described below. See a doctor specializing in low vision to determine which products will work best for you.
Hand-Held Magnifiers Often known as "magnifying glasses", hand-held magnifiers come in many shapes and sizes, and provide magnification between 1.5 and 20 times. Some styles can be folded up for easy transport in a pocket or handbag, and some are equipped with battery operated lights. Hand-held magnifiers may be difficult to use if your hands tire easily or tend to shake.
Stand Magnifiers Stand magnifiers can be helpful for weak or shaky hands. They are mounted on stands and must sit flat about the page being viewed. These devices can magnify between 2 and 20 times, and can be moved across the page to see each line. Illuminated stand or hand-held magnifiers can be plugged into an electrical outlet or fitted with batteries.
Monoculars / Telescopes Monoculars are mini telescopes use for seeing thinks at a distance. Magnification ranges from 2.5 to 10 times, depending on the telescope's size.
Binoculars Binoculars are similar to monoculars, but allow you to use both eyes to view thinks at a distance. Many sizes and strengths are available.
Spectacle-mounted "Magnifiers" Spectacle-mounted telescopes for distance, or spectacle-mounted microscopes for close up, can significantly improve visual abilities. These devices protrude from the spectacle frame, and can be used with one for both eyes. When using spectacle-mounted microscopes, objects must be held much closer to your eyes than normal. These types of spectacles area somewhat like bifocals in that they allow a person to switch to the telescopic lens for improved distance vision, and back to the spectacle lens for general orientation. These devices must be prescribed by a low-vision doctor.
Video Magnifiers (CCTV) A video magnifier (CCTV) uses a stand-mounted video camera to project magnified objects onto a video screen. These devices area very useful for reading, writing, looking at photographs and catalogs, or doing crafts. Magnification varies with the model and manufacturer. CCTVs ara available in black-and-white as well as color models, and come in various sizes. Some include special features such as underlining and shadow masking for easier reading. Others can be used in conjunction with a personal computer.
Reading Machines with Voice Output Reading machines (scanners with voice output) can be used to transform printed material into spoken words. Type-written text placed on to device's scanning surface is read aloud. Some devices can be hooked to a personal computer. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software can be used to turn a personal computer into a "reading machine."
Absorptive Lenses Absorptive lenses regulate the amount of light transitted through to the eye, and can often be worn over prescription glasses. By eliminating harmful sunrays, reducing glare, increasing contrast, and helping with the transition between light and dark surroundings, these lenses can increase both comfort and safety.
Other Adaptive Devices There is an impressive range of adaptive devices available. Devices with large print, high-contrast colors or "talking" features that say information out loud are designed to make life easier for people with impaired vision. Other items include talking watches, large print phones, writing guides and magnified makeup mirrors.
