OE Patients

Tag: Dorrie

  • Low Vision Awareness: Time to Get Organized

    Low Vision Awareness: Time to Get Organized

    A visual impairment that causes an acuity of 20/70 or less (in the better eye) and is not correctable with standard prescription glasses, or medical treatment, is considered ‘low vision.’  Although the term seems self-explanatory, it is not universally known, used predominantly by professionals in the field of vision rehabilitation and ophthalmology.

    People with low vision can benefit from higher powered magnification that may take the form of glasses, handheld devices, stand magnifiers and desktop video magnifiers. These specialized magnifiers range from 3x to 30x.  A low vision evaluation with a specialist is a good opportunity to see what works best for you.

    Patients are not typically referred for vision rehab services until they are legally blind (20/200 in the best eye), because that is when fees for services are covered. So living with a progressive vision loss is your best advantage to get into the habit of making adjustments long before legal blindness.

    Getting organized is key to living successfully with low vision. It may not be as easy to look for things as it once was.  A neat and tidy environment will compensate in substantial ways. Think about how nice it is to open a drawer and find exactly what you’re looking for because it is right where you left it. With low vision often it is easier to put our hands on something before our eyes see that it’s there.

    Let’s face it, everyone feels better when they’re organized. It gives us all a better sense of security. Like all good things we do for ourselves, order is something we have to work at and get into the habit of maintaining.

    Here are some tips for re-organizing:

     

    Declutter

    This can be a difficult exercise for many people, but it is the absolute most important first step. Get rid of the stacks of catalogs and unopened junk mail you are never going to look at. Arrange for some help from a friend or a professional. Let it go. Purge! This eliminates a major safety hazard and it’s truly cathartic.

     

    An organized drawer with folded clothing.
    An organized drawer with folded clothing.

     

    Clothing

    Overstuffed, disorganized closets are totally unpleasant and way too difficult to find anything in. Get rid of the clothes that don’t fit or haven’t been worn in a while. It’s always good to be able to move hangers easily to find what you’re looking for. Set up the closet as you like, by category, color, season. Keep things neatly folded on shelves or as preferred. Get shoes in order on door organizers or on racks, keeping them out of your path to prevent stumbles. Dressers also crave coordination, as does the coat closet. Might be wise to get some help here to look over the clothes and make sure they’re looking good.

     

    Cooking utensils neatly placed in a drawer kitchen organizer.
    Cooking utensils neatly placed in a drawer kitchen organizer.

     

    Kitchen

    A place filled with cabinets and drawers is just asking to be organized. Cooking utensils and silverware should be neatly arranged so you can put your hand on the item you’re looking for. Consider using brightly colored utensils or contrasted dishes for better visual ID. Organize food pantry items as preferred and keep everything in it’s designated place. Keep favorites up front. Use textured bump dots for touch identification on frequently used appliance settings.   

     

    Bathroom

    This is usually a small room that houses many small products where order is essential. In the bathroom, less is always best. Pare down to the everyday items. Keep cabinet shelves tidy. Do your best to remove clutter from surfaces. Put away or discard items not used often.

    Eliminating chaos among your things will help you every single day. Explain to family members, and remind them from time to time, the importance of keeping your world organized. 

     

  • Accessibility Bridges the Visual Divide

    Accessibility Bridges the Visual Divide

    Accessibility is a term that knows no bounds, defining the ease of use of technologies, services, and environments. At one time associated mainly with disability, its prominence now is largely driven by universal design and the aging population. Smart developers know that for a product to be successful it must be easily adoptable by people of every age. No dumbing-down required.

    The new age of accessibility is a game changer for people with vision loss in particular. We are no longer relegated to the stigma, or the expense, that “special” technology has traditionally carried. Using the same popular devices everyone else is using has incredibly healing and renewing properties, and gives us back some sense of normal. It is ultimately about inclusion.

    The most disappointing thing about these amazing developments is that far too many people are unaware that accessibility exists, and they continue to needlessly struggle with daily tasks! We can all help to change that. Screen settings and speech applications can significantly benefit all patients experiencing any and every degree of vision loss. They just need to know it’s available.

    In 2008, Apple delivered the iPhone with Accessibility Settings built into every phone, at no extra cost, which expanded usability to people with low vision or no vision. The move marked a pivotal shift in mainstream accessibility and Apple became the undisputed leader in this important evolution.

    The iPhone became the most adopted device, ever, among people with vision loss. It is also the most multiple-use device ever available for vision. Today the iOS options under Accessibility Settings for Vision include VoiceOver, Zoom, Magnifier, Larger Text, Bold Text, and Increased Contrast. These settings, along with Siri’s AI (artificial intelligence) and Dictation features, are not just beneficial for people with serious visual impairments…they’re good for everyone!

    In 2010, the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) was signed into law, mandating equal access to digital, broadband, and mobile devices for people with visual impairments or blindness. This is why all smartphones and tablets now have accessibility features included. It is also why all cable providers now offer customers the option to enable talking TV guides and menus. We now have an abundance of choices. Although all are not created totally equal, we can expect Android phones and tablets are accessible. Amazon’s Kindle eReaders and Fire tablets are accessible. Google, Microsoft, and Apple all make universal access a standard.

    Accessibility apps also play a meaningful role in improving function for people with visual impairments. There are apps that are magnifiers and flashlights; apps that take notes and send reminders; apps that convert text to speech; apps that help you take a well-focused photograph; and apps that read signs and locate transportation.

    This range of useful options isn’t limited to just cell phones and tablets — Microsoft Windows PC and Apple’s Mac computers can also be depended on for magnification, speech, dictation, and voice commands. People often give up computer use once the screen becomes too difficult to read. They don’t realize that they can adjust the technology to their needs, every step of the way. This is particularly important for people at work. The great majority of low vision users can continue to work, uninterrupted, with a little help from their IT Department to set it up to suit their particular needs.

    Taking an even bigger leap forward, Apple launched a dedicated Accessibility Support phone line to assist their customers with visual, hearing, motor, and learning impairments. The Verizon Wireless Accessibility Center followed. Next came the Microsoft Disability Answer Desk. Comcast, the leader in cable accessibility, offers dedicated phone support. Recently, Google announced that they, too, are preparing to launch a special support line. Amazon does not yet offer dedicated support, but they do have staff well versed in accessibility for Kindle, Fire and Echo accessibility.

    It is a life-changing innovation, and this is just the beginning — the best is clearly yet to come. Intuitive and predictive technology, interacted with by voice, is the next big frontier. Smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home are already popular and accessible for people of all ages and acuities. A powerful reminder that we are more alike than we are different.

     

    Image Credit: Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital | Northwell Health
    Image Credit: Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital | Northwell Health

     

    Image Credit: Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital | Northwell Health
    Image Credit: Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital | Northwell Health

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    To read the PDF version of this article click here

     

    Article first published in Manhattan Eye, Ear, & Throat Hospital | Northwell Health, Winter 2017 Newsletter

     

  • Descriptive Audio Brings Back the Detail

    Descriptive Audio Brings Back the Detail

    For more than a decade, descriptive audio tracks have been available on widely released feature films. Now the devices used to access these audio tracks are also widely available. This accommodation was once at the discretion of the theater, but now it is a requirement.

    And what a difference it can make for moviegoers with visual impairments.  Sitting up close to the screen is usually a good move, and the added narration can help ensure you don’t miss a thing.

    Beginning in January 2017, movie theaters across America now have descriptive audio devices, readily available, for all guests wishing to use them. The theater is also required to have a staff member on hand to assist customers requesting these devices, and that is a very good thing because different theaters may use different devices, and if you are not used to them it takes a time or two to acclimate.

    The policy for accessible movies accommodates people with hearing impairments as well, with separate devices that provide closed captioning. This tends to create some minor confusion because the device for people with hearing impairments looks like it’s for the eyes and the device for visual impairments looks like it’s for the ears. Just be sure you are clear that you wish to “listen to the descriptive audio track.”

    People sitting and excited, watching a movie in a movie theater.
    People sitting and excited, watching a movie in a movie theater.

    Depending on the theater, you may get a set of headphones or you may encounter a device that allows you to connect your own personal headphones or earbuds.  Thanks to the digital age in which we live, the movie tracks automatically synch with the film track. Voila!

    What happens next is truly wonderful.  A lovely voice begins to speak into the quiet spaces of the film, describing scenes or activity without ever interrupting the dialogue or talking over the music. Important details no longer slip by, the voice keeps you abreast every step of the way. You begin to “see” the picture you might have otherwise missed.

    You should also know these descriptive tracks can also be accessed in the privacy of your own home, TV, computer, tablet or smartphone.

    Sit back, relax and enjoy the movie!

     

  • 4 Things You Should Not Give Up In the New Year

    4 Things You Should Not Give Up In the New Year

    The start of a fresh new year is filled with promise. Anything and everything is possible. It’s a good time to evaluate your goals and objectives for the year ahead. 

    OE Patients was created to provide practical tips and encouraging advice to keep you addressing the challenges of vision loss and moving forward.  We strongly recommend a conscious renewal of your resolve to not give up doing the things you need to do and love to do.

    Coping with a visual impairment can be daunting until you discover there are solutions. We advise always to explore options, and never to give up easily. Here are 4 categories you should not give up, each followed by the tried and true solutions found in the pages of OE Patients.

    Don’t Give Up On Technology

    Continuing to use a mobile device or computer with a visual impairment can be unpleasant at times. But living without the use of technology today will be even more difficult. The very solutions you need, to adjust visual settings or access speech, are built into the software’s accessibility settings.  We’ll continue to give lots of advice on Accessibility & Technology in the coming year.  Here are links to some of the articles already posted:

    Accessibility Support Lines You Should Know

    10 things Siri Will Do If You Ask

    Savvy Seniors Tech Support Resources

    Are You A Dictator?

    10 Things to Know About iPhone Accessibility

    Don’t Give Up The Job

    We acknowledge that adjusting to vision loss while contending with the demands of a job can feel overwhelming. There are accessibility solutions built into your computer that can be exactly what you need to continue working productively. Make a friend in IT and get some help. Strongly consider discussing your visual impairment with your supervisor or Human Resources, it is in the employer’s best interest that you succeed on the job. Strengthen your resolve with a look back at these articles on this topic from OE Patients:

    5 Ways to Make Your Computer at Work Easier to Use

    Magnifiers Are a Must

    eSight Up Close

    Innovation Drives Inclusion

    Don’t Give Up On Reading

    Reading is always affected by vision loss. It is important to learn early on to make the adjustments that will keep you reading. Consider the lighting, text size, contrast, and magnification.  At some point, you may decide to move part of your reading to listening. A good audiobook is every bit as enjoyable as a real page-turner.

    Reading has a very broad spectrum and it comes into play over and over throughout any given day. You may need to find new ways to read signs, packaging, documents, and mail.  Here are some options to look at:

    Get Back the Joy of Reading with NLS

    iPad Accessibility Set Just Right for You

    Seeing AI is a Gift From Microsoft

    Kindle Gets A Voice

    Don’t Give Up Your Independence

    It all really ultimately comes down to independence, and it should never be given up without a fight! Stay tuned to these pages and we’ll keep giving you the power. 

    6 Ways to Make Bill Paying Easier

    GoGo Grandparent Gets an Uber Without an App

    Consider the Long White Cane

  • FDA Approves Gene Therapy for Rare Mutation

    FDA Approves Gene Therapy for Rare Mutation

    The first gene therapy for a rare inherited retinal disease has been approved.  The treatment is specific to the RPE65 gene mutation which causes progressive vision loss in children and adults, resulting in legal blindness, and sometimes even total blindness.

    The therapy, brand name Luxturna, is approved for a small group, approximately 1,000 to 2,000 patients in the US. It consists of the injection into each eye with a normal correcting RPE65 gene. The cost of this treatment expected to be in the high six figures.

    The hope is, this progress potentially opens a door to treatments for many more gene mutations causing inherited retinal diseases and progressive vision loss.

    Here is the United States Food & Drug Administration’s bulletin:

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Luxturna (voretigene neparvovec-rzyl), a new gene therapy, to treat children and adult patients with an inherited form of vision loss that may result in blindness. Luxturna is the first directly administered gene therapy approved in the U.S. that targets a disease caused by mutations in a specific gene.

    “Today’s approval marks another first in the field of gene therapy — both in how the therapy works and in expanding the use of gene therapy beyond the treatment of cancer to the treatment of vision loss — and this milestone reinforces the potential of this breakthrough approach in treating a wide-range of challenging diseases. The culmination of decades of research has resulted in three gene therapy approvals this year for patients with serious and rare diseases. I believe gene therapy will become a mainstay in treating, and maybe curing, many of our most devastating and intractable illnesses,” said FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D. “We’re at a turning point when it comes to this novel form of therapy and at the FDA, we’re focused on establishing the right policy framework to capitalize on this scientific opening. Next year, we’ll begin issuing a suite of disease-specific guidance documents on the development of specific gene therapy products to lay out modern and more efficient parameters — including new clinical measures — for the evaluation and review of gene therapy for different high-priority diseases where the platform is being targeted.”

    To read more please continue to the FDA’s bulletin here 

  • Consider The Long White Cane

    Consider The Long White Cane

    A close up of a long white cane on a street with yellow lines.
    A close up of a long white cane on a street with yellow lines.

    Vision loss can elevate feelings of insecurity, on many levels. Actively making adjustments helps maintain or regain the confidence to continue doing the things you need, and want, to do. That includes getting around safely.

    Taking a fall is unpleasant at any age.  Getting back up, in one piece, is not always easy. What you don’t see can definitely hurt you. The long white cane is a very useful tool in preventing falls.

    The white cane is still believed by many to indicate total blindness. But everyone should be aware, this is a tool that significantly improves mobility for people with low vision.  And it is increasingly being utilized by older adults with all kinds of visual impairments.

    Although it can restore confidence and independence, the white cane remains a difficult step for many to take. The reluctance commonly felt about using the cane, is almost always replaced by the sheer empowerment it offers.

    Use of a cane will greatly reduce the risk of injury. It provides feedback about the path ahead, changes in elevation, and alerts to obstacles. It will help you orient to conditions of darkness or bright glare. The cane will also inform others of your visual impairment.

    A professional Orientation & Mobility Specialist should always be consulted for proper training in the use of a long white cane. Contact your local vision rehabilitation center or ask your physician for a referral.

    Long white canes are lightweight and easily retractable. They fold up to a small bundle that fits into a tote or backpack. And they open up again with the flick of a wrist. 

    Don’t allow fear to curtail your freedom. The upside of cane use will far outweigh the downside.

     

  • An Introduction to Ophthalmic Edge Patients

    An Introduction to Ophthalmic Edge Patients

    Welcome to OE Patients.

    The Association for Macular Diseases, Inc. has partnered with Ophthalmic Edge to provide this empowering resource for patients living with visual impairments and progressive vision loss.

    We’re here to help you keep up with helpful tips and encouraging advice. Learn about Making Adjustments that will keep you doing the things you need and love to do. Get the inside scoop on today’s game-changing Accessibility & Technology for vision. Pay attention to your Health & Well-being, and stay tuned for upcoming Voices of Experience.

    Accessibility settings are always available at the upper right corner to make text larger or increase contrast. For total ease, click the ReadSpeaker button on every page and listen as the text is read aloud.

    We want to hear from you. Please feel free to post a comment, share on social media, or send an email to [email protected].

  • Innovation Drives Inclusion

    Innovation Drives Inclusion

    It’s always good to step outside ourselves and understand what others are experiencing. While we focus on overcoming the adversity of vision loss, our colleagues, friends, and neighbors are busy meeting their own challenges. 

    Recently, Microsoft CEO, Satay Nadella, shared the very personal experience that inspires his commitment to making accessibility and inclusive design a priority. He notes that this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month’s theme was dubbed, “Inclusion Drives Innovation,” a concept Microsoft totally supports.

    The flip side is equally true…innovation drives inclusion. Either way, we’ll take more of it, please!  The scope of work and it’s sense of inclusion is conveyed in the Microsoft Accessibility Blog’s subtext, “Making technology easier to see, hear, and use!”

     

    Here is an excerpt from Satay’s blog post:

    “Becoming a father of a son with special needs was the turning point in my life that has shaped who I am today. It has helped me better understand the journey of people with disabilities. It has shaped my personal passion for and philosophy of connecting new ideas to empathy for others. And it is why I am deeply committed to pushing the bounds on what love and compassion combined with human ingenuity and passion to have impact can accomplish with my colleagues at Microsoft.

    “It is fitting that the theme of this year’s U.S. National Disability Employment Awareness Month — recognized every October — is “Inclusion Drives Innovation.” We could not agree more. At Microsoft, we are making accessibility a top priority in our product development efforts, from core features in Windows 10 like Narrator to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible through innovations like Hearing AI created by Azure engineer Swetha Machanavajhala. In addition, we know that having an employee base that is representative of all backgrounds and abilities is one of our greatest strengths. This is why we continue to be passionate about hiring people with disabilities through initiatives like the Autism Hiring Program and Supported Employment Program, which help us advance our mission to empower every person on the planet — including more than 1 billion people who have disabilities. I am an optimist who firmly believes that at its most powerful, technology can contribute to incredible human capability and insight. I also believe it can help people find immense joy and a deeper connection to the world around them by enabling them to realize their professional and personal potentials. Some of my favorite examples of technology in action are where people have come together from across Microsoft, united by a shared passion to hack and build solutions that have the potential to benefit millions.


    “Recently, one of my colleagues, Angela Mills, shared her personal story with me. Angela is visually impaired — having lost her central vision when she was a child, today she has only her peripheral vision. Over the years, she has used various technologies to assist her daily activities, but she calls the early release of the new Seeing AI app “life-changing.” Before, when she went into a cafeteria for lunch, she would have to find a cafeteria worker and ask for help in picking out a salad. Now, she can go to the salad area and use the app on her phone to read the labels of the salads before choosing one by herself. She can walk confidently into a conference room, knowing for sure she’s in the right place with the right people; and when she’s cooking at home, she doesn’t have to rely on her husband to read out the labels on the spice jars. It’s incredible to see how this idea that was sparked and developed at our annual hackathon by Saqib Shaikh, Anirudh Koul, and team, is now a free application that enables Angela and many others to feel more included and connected to the world around them, and we can’t wait to bring it to more folks around the world in weeks and months to come.” S

    To read the full article on Microsoft’s inclusive design projects for people with Autism, ALS, Learning Issues and Visual Impairments, and to access audio described videos on these subjects…Click Here.

     

  • 11/09 Top Apps Made For Accessibility

    11/09 Top Apps Made For Accessibility

    Join Us Nov. 9, 2017 At MEETH

    Apps are empowering people with visual impairments in ways we could once only dream of. They read text on the go, identify people, products, places, turn cameras into magnifiers, summon live help, and light the way.

    Accessibility Resources for People with Visual Impairments 

     

    Presenter:

     

     

    Dorrie Rush 

    OphthalmicEdge.org Patients

     

    WHEN:

    Thursday, November 9, 2017 

    2:30 to 3:30 pm

     

    WHERE:

    Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital 

    Corwin Hall

    2nd Floor

    210 East 64 Street

    (between Third and Second Ave.)

    New York, NY 10065

     

    Please RSVP as seating is limited:

    Phone: (212) 702-7760

    Online: meethaccessibility.eventbrite.com

     

    Event Flyer: 

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Nov-9-MEETH-Accessibility-Center-Info-session-3-v1.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download PDF”]

     

    Top 5 Apps Handout: 

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Apps-Handout-Nov.-9-MEETH.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download PDF”]

     

    Save the date for our next session:

    April 19, 2018, 3 to 4 pm

    Smart Speakers!

     

    Hosted by the Department of Ophthalmology

    Supported by Association for Macular Diseases, Inc. 

     

     

     

  • 10 MORE Things Siri Will Do If You Ask

    10 MORE Things Siri Will Do If You Ask

    Here is the second installment of Siri commands that are useful, whether you have a visual impairment or not.

    Set “Hey Siri” to respond to your voice without touching the device, or call on Siri with a short press on the home button.

    Siri can help us, amuse us, and amaze us. Here are some of the things Siri will do. You just have to know how to ask. When used with VoiceOver, Siri always speaks back.

    1. Settings…”Turn on Do Not Disturb.” And more.
    2. Translate…”How do you say Good Morning in Spanish?”
    3. Sports…”Did the Giants win?”
    4. Contacts…”What is Frank’s address?”
    5. Stocks…”What is Apple’s stock price?”
    6. Location…”Where is the nearest Bank of America?”
    7. Photos…”Show my Photos from Montauk.”
    8. Maps…”Get me directions home.”
    9. Q&A…”How many ounces in a liter?.”
    10. Web Search…”Search the web for Siri commands.”

    Or, summon Siri and ask…”What can you do for me?”

     

  • VIP Seating Is There For You

    VIP Seating Is There For You

    A small accommodation can be all it takes to keep us doing the things we love to do. Vision loss may take away the joy of seeing a Broadway show.  Then again, a seat up close to the stage might just bring that joy right back!

    You should know that preferred seating, for people who are visually impaired, is required in public and commercial venues. Seats for visual access are often in the first few rows. They are sold on a first come basis, with one (or more) additional ticket purchases allowed for a companion or guest.

    It is certainly worth exploring and experiencing.  For more information, try searching online using the venue, or event name along with “accessible seating” or “disability services.” It may be best to begin with a phone call to the box office or the designated ticket seller. Check to see if they have a direct phone line for Accessibility.

    Sometimes Access Services online looks like it is related only to wheelchairs. Do not be confused or deterred. Wherever wheelchairs are accommodated, vision loss is accommodated as well.

    Each venue reserves seats for this purpose. It is possible to get access seats very close to the date of the performance, so always give it a try. For very popular shows and events, this may not be the case, you may have to buy way in advance. Still, getting the right seats is worth the wait.

    A special VIP ticket on a gray background.
    A special VIP ticket on a gray background.

    Here are some of the services available in New York City. You’ll find similar options in your own town.

    • Telecharge Broadway Shows
      Access Services
      Phone: 212.239.6222
    • Radio City Music Hall
      Disabled Services
      Phone: 212.465.6115

     

  • 10/12 What Siri Can Do For You

    10/12 What Siri Can Do For You

    Join Us Oct.12, 2017 At MEETH

    Siri, Apple’s “intelligent personal assistant”, can be an empowering tool to help you maximize functionality in your iPhone and/or iPad. Please join us in learning easy tips to benefit from this life-changing technology!

    Accessibility Resources for People with Visual Impairments 

     

    Presenter:

     

     

    Dorrie Rush 

    OphthalmicEdge.org Patients

     

    WHEN:

    Thursday, October 12, 2018 

    2:30 to 3:30 pm

     

    WHERE:

    Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital 

    Corwin Hall

    2nd Floor

    210 East 64 Street

    (between Third and Second Ave.)

    New York, NY 10065

     

    Event Flyer: 

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/10-12-MEETH-Siri-Event.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download PDF”]

     

    Save the date for our next session:

    November 9, 2017, 2:30 to 3:30 pm

    Top 5 Accessibility Apps!

     

    Hosted by the Department of Ophthalmology

    Supported by Association for Macular Diseases, Inc.