Hi-Tech Visual Aids For Visual Impairment

Published on

February 8, 2022

What do you do if your vision is impaired? How would you cope with the fact that you are not able to read a newspaper or a letter? How about something as simple as reading the ingredients on a box of cereal?

If you are unable to see what is written on anything like a book, sign, or even a chalkboard, you could ask someone to read it aloud for you. Yet, having independence after vision loss is something that cannot be overlooked.

In the last couple of years, High-Tech Aids for Visual Impairment has become something that is actually possible. Technology has made it easier for visually impaired people to obtain and use a wide range of assistive technologies. These devices allow individuals with visual impairments to engage in activities that they might not otherwise be able to do. Some devices simply magnify what the user can see, while others have additional functions.

What are some of the options for high-tech low vision devices?

There are many different types of High-Tech Aids available, so it's always best to visit a low vision optometrist before purchasing one.

Phone and computer based low vision technologies - Since our cell phones have cameras they are a great tool for someone with vision loss. For example there are apps that will read text, magnify text, change contrast, and identify things around you. A low vision optometrist will have the most updated lists of cell phone based assistive technologies.
CCTV low vision devices - A CCTV is a camera that projects the image onto a screen and allows for magnification, changing color contrast settings, and depending on the model other setting may be included. CCTV’s that are desktop versions are ideal for someone who needs it for work or studies. While handheld CCTV’s are a great option for someone who is looking for a device that they can use when they are outdoors.
Digital headsets - There are many digital devices that are worn over the eyes that have external cameras that project the image inside the headset. These devices have many features such as magnification, contrast, text to speech and more. The big drawback is that most low vision patients do not want something so large and obvious when they are out of the house. Examples of digital headsets Acesight by Zoomax are IrisVision, Esight, and NuEyes Pro.
Optical character recognition - For people with more severe vision loss there are devices that will assist with identifying faces, reading text, identifying money, without relying on the patients vision at all. One extremely innovative example is OrCam which has two products named best invention of the year by time magazine in 2019 and 2021.

Who is the ideal candidate for high tech low vision devices?

Many low vision patients have difficulty learning new technologies or have limited budgets for advanced technologies for low vision. Since every person and their vision is different, it is always ideal to visit a low vision optometrist for a low vision exam, so that the doctor can assess the patient's vision, their visual goals, and identify the devices that can help them achieve independence within their budget.

Learn more about the different types of high-tech visual aids https://amplifyeyecarechatt.com/low-vision/hi-tech-visual-aids-for-visual-impairment/

Testimonials

Vision therapy is well worth the response, time and effort. Our Son had a hard time focusing and writing neatly. After vision therapy Seth could complete a task in half the time if previously took. His abilities to focus improved greatly and so did his handwriting.

Also, he was better at listening. As a parent, we wanted learning to be fun for our Son, and vision therapy made this possible.

Amanda T.

Vision Therapy is well worth the expense, time and effort. Our son had a hard time focusing handwriting neatly. After vision therapy Seth could complete a task in half the time it previously took his abilities to focus and improved greatly and so did his handwriting.

Also, he was better at listening. As a parent you wanted learning to be fun for our son and vision therapy made this possible.

Alexa H.

Vision Therapy has given or son the tools he needs to be able to scan and read the written word more effectively and efficiently.

He love working with John and these working sessions give him the motivation to gladly work on his homework assignments.

It amazed us to see the difference in the tracking of his eyes and along a line of it's from the beginning to the end of the treatment.

Dr. McBryar , Kristen and John are all marvelous and we would recommend them to anyone I only wish that we would have found them sooner!

Charlotte M.

Prior to coming to the institute for vision development my son complained of daily headaches. Therapy has eliminated his headaches completely. I love knowing my son is able to learn pain-free for the rest of his life because of the work that has been done over just a few weeks in this office. He he absolutely loved coming that didn't even feel like going to a doctor or therapy. We are grateful for the relief he was able to find by coming here.

Thank you!

Olivia C.

Seems much less frustrated with life

Reads non-stop and fast

Spelling abilities have been hugely improved

Seems much more confident

Thank You!!!

Kelly O.

When we first came to the practice, my son did not have huge issues, but lots of small ones- trouble with reading, sports (hitting the baseball consistently), coordination, etc- that were not easily detectable,but when put together presented issues. The staff here were all very professional and loving towards him. While I was concerned in the reading, my son was concerned with the athletic side. Seeing improvement night off the bat gave him confidence that i have nor seen in him and made him want to not only Come to therapy, but also made him want to work hard. He has surpassed his grade level and above in reading and hit his first home run this year! Thank you!!!