Technology has come a long way in recent years. There are now many types of technology that can help people with low vision live more independently. From voice-activated technology that can help with reading to apps that can make navigation more accessible to smart glasses that can help with everyday tasks, there are many ways that technology is helping people with low vision to live their best lives.
Check out ten of the latest technology helping people with low vision to live their best lives!
1. Voice-Activated Technology
One of the latest types of technology helping people with low vision is voice-activated technology. This type of technology can be used to help with reading and other tasks. There are several voice-activated devices on the market, such as the Amazon Echo and Google Home. These devices can be used to read aloud books, articles, and other printed materials. They can also be used to perform tasks such as setting alarms, adding items to a shopping list, and controlling smart home devices.
2. Smart Glasses
Smart glasses are a type of wearable computer that can be worn like a pair of regular glasses. They have a small display built into the lenses that can be used to magnify text and images, as well as provide other information such as turn-by-turn directions. For example, people with macular degeneration glasses are able to see better with the help of smart glasses.
3. Apps
There are many types of apps available that can help people with low vision. For example, there are apps that can be used to magnify text and images on a smartphone or tablet. There are also apps that can provide turn-by-turn directions, as well as help with tasks such as identifying products and reading barcodes.
4. GPS Devices
GPS devices are another type of technology that can be used to help people with low vision. GPS devices can provide turn-by-turn directions, as well as help with locating businesses and other points of interest. They can also be used to track a person’s location in case they become lost.
5. Audio Books
With audiobooks, people with low vision can listen to their favorite books instead of reading them. Audiobooks can be downloaded from online retailers such as Amazon and iTunes. They can also be checked out from libraries. Moreover, many public libraries now offer audiobooks that can be streamed online.
6. Adaptive Telephones
This type of telephone is designed for people with low vision and other disabilities. Adaptive telephones have large buttons and displays and features such as voice-activated dialing and text-to-speech. With these features, people with low vision can easily make and receive phone calls.
7. Digital Magnifiers
Digital magnifiers are a type of portable electronic device that can be used to magnify text and images. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles, such as handheld devices and desktop models. Digital magnifiers can be used to read print material, such as books, newspapers, and magazines. They can also be used to view images, such as photos and artwork.
8. Notetakers
Notetakers are a type of portable electronic device that can be used to take notes, write emails, and perform other tasks. They typically have a QWERTY keyboard and a small display screen. Notetakers can be used to store and organize contact information, as well as create and edit documents.
9. Smart Watches
One of the most popular new trends in technology is the smartwatch. These watches do more than just tell time; they can track fitness, take pictures, and even make phone calls. Smartwatches can be a great way to stay connected and independent for people with low vision. There are a few different types of smartwatches on the market, so it is essential to find one that meets your needs.
10. Braille Display
A Braille display, or refreshable Braille output device, is an electro-mechanical device for displaying Braille characters. The individual braille cells are made up of raised dots that can be felt with the fingers. The number of dots in each cell varies depending on the particular system being used, but they can range from six to eight. Braille displays can be used to read the text and navigate a computer or mobile device.
There are many types of technology that can help people with low vision to live more independently. With the right tools, people with low vision can do everything from reading and writing to navigating their surroundings to staying connected with loved ones. This is just a small sampling of the available different types of technology.