Currently within Australia it is estimated that there are approximately 380,000 people living with legal blindness or low vision. As a result of the ageing population this number is expected to double in the next 20 years.
Low vision is defined as when a person’s loss of vision is severe enough to impede performance of a number of tasks but still allows some useful visual discrimination. The majority of people who are legally blind are included within the low vision classification.
When people lose their vision things they used to do often become difficult or impossible. When the vision loss is severe, they often need to find new ways of doing things. It is advisable that they get help and do not give up the activities they used to enjoy. As low vision cannot be corrected by regular eye glasses or spectacles it is important that people seek the aid of low vision products. These products assist people with different activites of daily living and help them to maintain independence and quality of life.
- MAGNIFIERS
- Magnifying sheets: These have a low magnification and are effective for reading large materials such as the paper.
- Hand held magnifiers: These have a range of magnifications and can be used for a variety of activities.
- Magnifying Lamps: The lamp and magnifier can be used together and the angle of magnification can be adjusted to suit the activity.
- Swivel mounted magnifiers: These allow the lens angle to be adjusted leaving your hands free. They are ideal for embroidery, needle work and all dexterous hobbies and interests.
- Torch Magnifiers: These are available in various shapes and with various lens dimensions. Magnification powers range from 3x to 10x.
There a range of magnifiers that are available however some magnifers may require a prescription by an optometrist or opthamoligist. Magnifiers are available in a range of sizes, shapes and magnifications to suit the individual’s needs. Some types of magnifiers available include:
- HOUSEHOLD AIDS/HYGIENE
- Talking kitchen scales: When the food is placed in the bowl a computer generated voice will detail the weight content.
- Talking timer: A combined unit that works as a talking timer or talking clock. The timer may count up or down.
- Liquid Level Sensor: A small device that is placed over a container/mug to prevent people from overfilling their mugs with liquid. Once the liquid reaches the first level an auditory signal will sound once. When the liquid hits the second level a longer auditory signal will sound. Ideal for use with water and milk for tea/coffee.
- Talking bathroom scales: These have a digital display and audible read out. When the user stands on the scale the weight is announced.
- Talking Clock: A clock with both a digital display and a large analogue display. It has a raised ‘talk’ button on the top and features an optional hourly report.
- Magnifying Mirrors: These are available in a range of magnifications. The two way mirrors may be swivel mounted with magnification on one side and a regular mirror on the other. They are ideal for use in the bathroom.
There are many low vision aids which can make activities around the home easier. These include
- RECREATION
- Large Playing cards: Cards are available in a range of sizes and with a range of number sizes. They are also available in braille.
- Card Holder: Card holders may be free standing or hand held. Lightweight models are available.
There is a variety of equipment designed to assist people with low vision to participate in recreational activities. Some examples include:
Many of these products can be sourced from:
Royal Society for the Blind
Low Vision Centre, Knapman House, 230 Pirie St Adelaide S.A. 5000 Ph: (08) 8232 4777
For further information on this topic or to make an appointment to visit the display area please contact the Independent Living Centre: www.ilc.asn.au
