OE Patients

Tag: vision loss

  • Better Access To Art & Entertainment

    Better Access To Art & Entertainment

    Living with vision loss does not mean giving up the enjoyment of movies, museums, theater, or TV.  There has never been a better time for access and inclusion in art and entertainment, for everyone. You just need to know it’s there for the asking.

    It’s all been covered on the pages of OE Patients and we think it’s well worth repeating.  Take advantage of these opportunities to elevate your accessibility awareness, and then pass the information along to a friend.

     

    Close up portrait of woman smiling while wearing headphones.

    Movies

    All movie theaters, in the U.S., now make audio descriptive devices readily available to everyone. The descriptive track, embedded into all widely released movies, automatically syncs with the film and describes the details you may have otherwise missed.  The descriptive narration is slipped into the quiet places of the film, so it does not interfere with the soundtrack.

    More on OE:

    Descriptive Audio Brings Back The Detail

     

    Times Square’s animated colorful LED lights and Broadway theaters in New York City.

    Theater

    You can count on Broadway for audio description as well.  Descriptive devices are available, for the asking, at every live performance beginning 4 weeks from opening night.  Borrow a device in the theater’s lobby kiosk, or use the GalaPro app on your own mobile phone.  And when purchasing theater tickets, don’t forget to ask about access seating closer to the stage.  Staff is always on hand to help you get set to fully enjoy the show.  These accommodations may also be available at a theater, off-Broadway, and near you, so go ahead and ask!

    Here’s more on theater accessibility:

    Inclusivity Takes The Stage On Broadway

    VIP Seating Is There For You

     

    Visitors In Botticelli Hall Of Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.

    Museums

    Art is more accessible than ever. More often than not, museums offer programs that include touch tours, verbal imaging tours, and audio description, available by appointment, or just for the asking.  Explore the opportunities and you’ll discover there are many ways to ‘see’ art.

    Learn more here:

    Museums Making Art More Accessible

    Audio Description Event Recap

     

    TALKING GUIDE FOR YOUR TV
    Woman using tablet to help navigate settings on TV.

    Television

    Viewing and navigating a TV is definitely a challenge with vision loss. Thanks to the 21st Century Communications & Video Accessibility Act, your cable provider must offer a voice-enabled TV guide. This too is available for the asking and at no extra cost. Today many cable providers are adding features, like channel selection, that can be controlled by voice.

    Here’s more from OE on TV:

    Talking Guide For Your TV

    Accessible TV Seminar Highlights

     

    To explore the options available in any of these categories, Google the name of a theater, museum, or cable provider + accessibility.

     

  • Accessibility Matters In The Ophthalmologist’s Office

    Accessibility Matters In The Ophthalmologist’s Office

    A visit to any doctor’s office can include some degree of difficulty for people with uncorrectable vision loss.  The same challenges can even exist in the office of the ophthalmologist.  Good patient care is not just measured by the exam and treatment, it is also measured by the patient experience.

    Follow these guidelines to establish policies and procedures that help create an accessible office environment that is better for everyone.

     

    Make Sure Signage is Easy to Read

    Signs throughout the office should be in large print, using legible, highly contrasted easy to read font styles.  Never use print on a patterned background, or gold letters on a beige wall.  Positioning signs close to eye level makes them easier for everyone to see. 

     

    Utilize Color Contrast

    Use contrast in the office design.  Paint doors or frames a color that stands out from walls.  Use dark seating against a light carpet color.  Steps should always have contrasted edges and handrails. Avoid glass doors and walls entirely, they are hazardous to people with low vision and also those with dilated eyes. 

     

    Use Good Verbal Communication

    Always address patients directly by name, as they may not be able to see that you are speaking to them, or make eye contact.  When you greet a patient, identify yourself by name, don’t assume they will recognize you or know your voice.  Generally, it is not necessary to speak loudly to people with vision loss, unless you know their hearing is also impaired.

    Ask the patient if they need your assistance.  Don’t make assumptions about their abilities or their needs.

    Don’t point or say, “over there,” when giving directions.  Orient to the person’s direction by saying, “Walk to the end of this hall and turn left, the exit is the first door on your right.”

     

    Provide Accessible Information 

    Obviously, it is incorrect to assume all patients are able to complete paper forms.  If your office is still using clipboards to collect information, there should be alternatives offered.  Better options for everyone include online forms or having a staff member directly input all necessary information, provided by phone, pre-appointment.

    Make sure written communications are accessible.  Any printed or digital information given to patients should use text at least 18 pt., or larger and bolder when possible.  Always use a clean, easy reading, sans-serif font style like: Arial, Helvetica, or Verdana.  Be sure the content on copied documents is clearly legible.

    For many patients, particularly those who cannot easily read print, digital documents are the best alternative, as they can be adjusted to the reading preference of each individual.

    Remember, small changes can make a big difference in the way patients feel when they visit your office.

     

  • Living Better With AMD

    Living Better With AMD

    There was a time when a patient diagnosed with Age-Related Macular Degeneration was told, “You are going blind, and there is nothing we can do.”  Today we are much better informed, and we know that AMD causes impairment of the central vision (not total blindness).  We also know, there is plenty we can do to make the adjustments that enable us to continue productive lives. 

    Currently, there are treatments for about 10% of all AMD cases, as outlined in our recent article Hope For AMD.  For all patients, there are many ways to compensate for the changes in vision, while protecting and maximizing remaining sight.  Today’s AMD patient is active and engaged in solutions that include technology, accessibility, and wellness. 

    A willingness to make small changes is the key to successfully overcoming the adversity caused by any degree of vision loss.  Like all things achieved in life, this too requires effort.

    Here are 5 ways you can live better with AMD.

    • Daily Nutrition: Studies show, good nutrition has the power to prevent or slow the development of Age-Related Macular Degeneration.  Do not delay, start today, form your own anti-AMD game plan. Read OE’s Anti-AMD Diet.
    • Perspective: Focus on the vision you have, do not dwell on the loss.  Take a moment each day to look around and take in your surroundings, appreciate all that you can see.  This will literally Improve Your Outlook.
    • Magnification: Make magnifiers your number one accessory.  Create your own collection of magnifiers for your daily tasks and keep them easy to access: one in your coat pocket, one in the kitchen, one on your desk, etc.  Explore the low and high tech options available in our article, Magnifiers Are A Must.
    • Technology: The power of accessible technology cannot be underestimated or overlooked. There is practically no limit to the compensatory value of mobile devices and computers that possess the ability to give you the visual or audible features that provide full access for everyone, regardless of acuity.  Browse OE Patients: Accessibility & Technology section.  Or go straight to a favorite on iPhone Accessibility.
    • Preserve Your Sight: No smoking and always wearing sunglasses outdoors, are good habits that will help protect your eyes, from these damaging causes, for the long term.  Read more on Sight Saving Habits.

    The ability to remain flexible and to keep making adjustments will empower you to continue doing the things you want to do.

    Tell us about your solutions for living with AMD.

  • December 2018

    December 2018

    Welcome to the December 2018 issue of Eyes Only, the longstanding membership newsletter of the Association for Macular Diseases, now featuring a special selection of content from OEPatients.org.

     

    Featured Articles


    Print Version

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Eyes-Only-December-2018-Newsletter.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download June 2018 PDF”]

     

     

  • June 2018

    June 2018

    Welcome to the June 2018 issue of Eyes Only, the longstanding membership newsletter of the Association for Macular Diseases, now featuring a special selection of content from OEPatients.org.

     

    Featured Articles


    Print Version

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Eyes-Only-June-2018-Newsletter.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download June 2018 PDF”]

     

     

  • January 2018

    January 2018

    Welcome to the January 2018 issue of Eyes Only, the longstanding membership newsletter of the Association for Macular Diseases, now featuring a special selection of content from OEPatients.org.  

    Featured Articles

    Print Version

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Eyes-Only-January-2018-Newsletter.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download Jan 2018 PDF”]

  • Spring 2017

    Spring 2017

    Welcome to the Spring 2017 issue of Eyes Only, the longstanding membership newsletter of the Association for Macular Diseases, now featuring a special selection of content from OEPatients.org.

     

    Featured Articles

     

     Print Version

    [easy_media_download url=”https://oepatientsbu.xyz/2025/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Eyes-Only-Spring-2017-Newsletter-2-28-17_Hi-Res-Placed-1Up.pdf” target=”_blank” class=”directpdf” text=”Download Spring 2017 PDF”]

     

     

  • Accessibility Matters When Choosing A Home

    Accessibility Matters When Choosing A Home

    There are many elements to contemplate when shopping for a new home, especially when you have a visual impairment.  Although it is always possible to fall in love with a person, or a place, or a job that will move you from a comfort zone into the unknown.  Don’t let that hold you back.  Move forward and live life, just approach your selection with intelligence, while considering the factors you require for independence.

    Moving is a big deal for anyone, so it’s essential to keep practicality at the forefront of your selection process.

    Don’t let a gorgeous living space trick you into thinking you can live in a place that is not generally accessible to you.  We are talking about the basics for living well, for continuing to do the things you need, and love, to do.  Good sidewalks, public transportation, and local shopping, can take on a new level of priority, when you don’t drive.

    City locales are naturally favored over rural areas because they offer greater convenience in closer proximity.  However, cities don’t guarantee comfort.  New York City, for example, is a dream destination for many, but it can also feel overwhelmingly hectic for others.  Within every city there are areas that offer higher degrees of favorability.

    Do your due diligence in scouting the right location. You decide what is essential to your well-being. Here are some important things to look at.

    Public Transportation: Look at the accessibility of railroads, buses, subways, etc.

    Walking: Are there walkable sidewalks, and crosswalks, to the places you will be going?

    Shopping: Is there a supermarket within walking distance? Is there a shopping center with a variety of stores? Dry cleaner? Hair salon?

    Climate: Is the weather generally good for walking year-round? Is the area prone to extremes in temperature, storms, or flooding?

    Fitness: Are you close to a gym, exercise studio, pool, or walking trails?

    Healthcare: Can you get to a doctor or dentist in the local area?

    Restaurants: It’s always nice to have good food nearby.

    Culture & Entertainment: Can you access movies, theater, and museums?

    Smarter cities are in the works, but urban planning and infrastructure overhauls are decades in the making. We look forward to transportation hubs with interior navigations systems. There are numerous apps in development as well, that hope to help us get wherever we want to go.

     

  • How to Create Reminders with Siri

    How to Create Reminders with Siri

    If your memory isn’t quite what it used to be, or you just have too many things on your mind, it’s time to get a little help from your technology. “Reminders” are the new age To Do list, and they’re available wherever you access your digital assistant. This is a great way to keep track of everything you want to recall, like errands, appointments, shopping lists, and projects you’re working on. 

    Telling your mobile phone or smart speaker to schedule a reminder, sounds like an accessibility feature tailor-made for people with vision loss, but the fact is, regardless of age or acuity, reminders are good for everyone! 

    Of course, you can set reminders the old-fashioned way, by tapping and typing, but we totally prefer talking. Here, for example, is what you can do on an Apple iOS device.

    On iPhone, iPad, iPod touch

    To call upon Siri, be sure Settings are turned on for: “Hey Siri” and “Voice Feedback” always.  

    To create a list:

    • Say: Create a new list called Shopping.
    • Say: Add milk to my Shopping list. 
    • Say: Add eggs to my Shopping list.
    • Say: Delete milk from my Shopping list.
    • Say: What is on my Shopping list?

    To schedule a reminder:

    • Say: Remind me to call Jack tomorrow.
    • Say: Remind me to email Jill about the meeting.
    • Say: Remind me to stop at the dry cleaner on my way home.
    • Say: Remind me on Monday that I have a dentist appointment on Tuesday at 8 am.
    • Say: Delete reminder to call Jack. 
    • Say: Do I have any reminders for today?

    It is relatively easy to use these voice commands, and enormously satisfying to get such cooperation from your assistant. Do your best to keep lists and reminders organized and under control. To get started, sit down with your iOS device and begin trying the voice commands listed above. 

    Should you want or need more detail, and don’t mind using the keyboard, here are more options for creating Reminders from Apple.

    Reminders can also be set for Google Home and Amazon Alexa speakers. For guidance on that and for Accessibility Support on iOS, the best way to get yourself properly set up is by calling for expert assistance at the phone numbers below.

    Google Home:  855-971-9121

    Amazon Alexa:  877-375-9365

    Apple Accessibility: 877-204-3930 

  • Top 10 Stories of People Thriving with Legal Blindness

    Top 10 Stories of People Thriving with Legal Blindness

    This year, we were delighted to share, on social media, a range of stories featuring artists, chefs, photographers and more, all living full and successful lives with visual impairments. Across age and industry, one quality ties these wonderful and inspiring narratives together — dedicated persistence in the face of challenges.

    Here are the 10 stories that were your favorites in 2018.

    Photographers and Filmmakers

    Digital camera against the window sill, with yellow strap.

    Digital camera against the window sill, with yellow strap.

    Bruce Hall, Photographer

    Bruce Hall is a legally blind photographer, teacher, and disability advocate. In his own words, Bruce “photographs in order to see”. His work has been published in textbooks and magazines, as well as featured internationally in art exhibits, such as the National Museum of Natural History at the Smithsonian; the Kennedy Center, Washington D.C.; and more. 

    Watch Bruce Hall in Apple’s “Behind the Mac” video.

    Tammy Ruggles, Photographer

    Tammy Ruggles is a legally blind photographer living with retinitis pigmentosa. Tammy does not let her condition deter her from pursuing work. Instead, she uses her camera as a second pair of eyes to see the world in new and beautifully creative ways. An admirer of Ansel Adams, Tammy’s photographic style leans towards high-contrast, classic black-and-white shots.  

    Read Tammy Ruggles’ piece on her photography and philosophy.

    James Rath, Filmmaker 

    James Rath is a legally blind YouTuber, filmmaker, activist, and public speaker, living with ocular albinism and nystagmus. He advocates for equal opportunities for all through his favorite medium of video. His work includes a spot for Apple, “How Apple Saved My Life”, highlighting the brand’s accessibility features; as well as a major digital campaign for Tommy Hilfiger’s accessible clothing line.

    Read more about James Rath.

    Visual Artists and Writers

    Closeup of green leaves being painted, with pencils next to the painting.

    Closeup of green leaves being painted, with pencils next to the painting.

    Robert Andrew Parker, Artist 

    Robert Andrew Parker is an 87-year-old artist living with macular degeneration, known for his paintings, as well as prints of figures, landscapes, and animals. He has illustrated more than 100 books, and has been recognized with notable awards, including a Guggenheim, a Caldecott Honor and an American Association Notable Book award. 

    Watch the short film on Robert Andrew Parker.

    Keith Salmon, Artist

    Keith Salmon is a legally blind British landscape artist, living with diabetic retinopathy. In his abstract paintings, he conveys the wild, free spirit of adopted home Scotland. An avid mountain climber and hill walker, Keith uses his expeditions to gather inspiration and material for his artwork. 

    Read the interview with Keith Salmon.

    Erica Tandori, Artist 

    Erica Tandori is a legally blind artist, academic and public speaker, living with macular dystrophy. Throughout her artistic and academic career, Erica has been dedicated to exploring the lived experience of vision loss, and what it means to “see”. Her painted landscapes are highly realistic, with a haunting, misty quality.

    Read the interview with Erica Tandori.

    Paola Peretti, Novelist 

    Novelist and Italian language teacher Paola Peretti was diagnosed with Stargardt macular dystrophy at the age of 17. The act of writing brought her clarity. Her debut children’s novel, titled The Distance Between Me and the Cherry Tree, features a young heroine with Stargardt disease. The book echoes Paola’s mantra of hope: “Never, ever give up”. 

    Read more about Paola Peretti.

    Chefs and Bakers

    Cupcake with icing, next to sprigs of dried lavender, on a wooden table.

    Cupcake with icing, next to sprigs of dried lavender, on a wooden table.

    Penny Melville-Brown, Baker 

    Penny Melville-Brown is a baker, who is also legally blind. She traveled to six continents over a year, meeting, cooking, and bonding with chefs, community leaders and other blind and visually impaired people along the way. She stopped by places like Costa Rica, Malawi, Australia, China and the United States, with her nephew documenting the entire world tour in a video blog series.

    Read more about Penny Melville-Brown.

    Benjamin Hsu, Chef

    Benjamin Hsu, a sushi chef living with ocular albinism, has keen senses. When he works, it’s his passion, deftness and love for food that is most visible and apparent. Benjamin doesn’t let his visual impairment faze him. “My vision, it just makes things a little bit harder, but it doesn’t matter because I don’t let it matter,” he says.   

    Read more about Benjamin Hsu.

  • OE Patients: Best Of 2018 Articles

    OE Patients: Best Of 2018 Articles

    This year, we created a roundup of our most popular articles on OE Patients. Our best-of list for 2018 covers technology, health, and tips for making adjustments — from the secret to mastering iPhone’s VoiceOver to accessibility at arts museums.

    We hope you’ll be inspired to develop a new skill or create a good habit for the fresh new year!

    Apple’s iPhone

    10 Things To Know About iPhone Accessibility For Vision

    The iPhone is quite possibly the most adopted device, ever, for people with vision loss. This is because it is accessible out-of-the-box, even if you can’t see the screen at all.

    Discover the top reasons for using the iPhone.

    Let iPhone’s VoiceOver Do The Reading

    Apple’s built-in screen reader was a game-changer for those living with vision loss. Our accessibility expert, Dorrie Rush, writes about the secret to mastering iPhone’s VoiceOver gestures — practice, practice, practice.

    Learn how to master VoiceOver.

    Microsoft

    “Seeing AI” Is A Gift from Microsoft

    We love Microsoft’s Seeing AI, a free, intelligent camera app that translates images into words for people with visual impairments and blindness. Here are four features we especially like.

    Learn more about Seeing AI.

    Microsoft Soundscape 2018, A Review of What It Can Do

    Our accessibility expert Dorrie Rush appreciates the enhanced narration and awareness provided by Microsoft Soundscape, a navigation tool for people with vision loss.

    Read the full review of Soundscape.

    Apps and Technology

    App Happy

    Discover a collection of wonderful apps that empower people with visual impairments in ways we could only once dream.

    Click for our recommended apps.

    Electronic Glasses Event Recap

    In October, OE Patients held an accessibility event on wearable devices for audiences with vision loss.  We took a closer look into head mounted products including: OrCam, IrisVision, Jordy and more.

    Explore featured electronic glasses.

    GoGo Grandparent Gets Uber Without An App

    For older adults who need to get an Uber or Lyft without an app or smartphone, GoGoGrandparent is perfect.

    Find out more about GoGo Grandparent.

    Making Adjustments and Health

    Doctor, Am I Going Blind?

    Every eye condition is different. Read our article by ophthalmologist Dr. Yale Fisher, to understand how vision loss caused by macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma rarely results in blindness.

    Learn more about vision across eye conditions.

    What Is A Cataract?

    Cataract is the leading cause of reversible blindness and vision loss in the world. Read more by Dr. Amilia Schrier, Director of Education at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital.

    Learn more about cataracts.

    Museums Making Art More Accessible

    From Florence to New York City, museums everywhere are making it easier for visitors who are visually impaired or blind to experience art.

    Find out how museums are opening up art.

  • Event Recap: App Happy

    Event Recap: App Happy

    Thanks to all who attended our accessibility session on Apps, coming out despite the Arctic blast that hit with a relentless mix of icy rain and snow.  The discussion was lively and always interesting and informative, exactly as we hoped it would be. People sharing their experience and learning from each other.

    We acknowledged, upfront, that the topic of apps is massive and could be discussed for days. Apps that help us compensate for vision loss are available in many categories. We have lots of choices, and selecting the apps we integrate into daily life is a very individual process.

    It was also delightful to note, that accessibility for people with vision loss is a priority, emphasized by tech leaders like Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon.  Inclusive technology is shifting our expectations and bridging the gaps.  Although it’s not perfect…it’s really good.

    Finding the apps that work for you will make life a little easier.

    The recap that follows is a look at some specific apps and new developments we talked about at our “App Happy” session. It’s not only the apps with the bells and whistles that can change your life. Access to the basic built-in iPhone apps like Contacts, Camera, Messages, News, Clock, and Maps, can make a huge difference in your everyday.   

     

    Here are the apps that kicked off our “App Happy” discussion: 

    Seeing AI App (iOS Only)

    This app from Microsoft has been around for just over a year and has already expanded its channels and improved its performance noticeably. Built for iOS exclusively, but rumored to be adding Android soon. Read more about Seeing AI in our article here.

    9 Channels:

    • Short Text – Reads instantly
    • Document – Aligns and reads full page
    • Product – Barcode reader
    • Person – Facial recognition; fun but not sure how functional
    • Currency Reader – US and Canadian
    • Scene Reader – take a photo and it describes the scene and reads text
    • Color Reader – identifies color
    • Handwriting Reader – much improved for handwritten print or cursive
    • Light Indicator – changes tone to the direction of light

     

    Soundscape App (iOS Only)

    A “map with 3D sound” provides information about your environment. Also from Microsoft, exclusively for iOS (so far). Read more about Microsoft Soundscape in our article here.

    4 Channels:

    • My Location – figure out where you are, direction facing, points of interest
    • Nearby Marker – locations you have marked
    • Around Me – what’s in the 4 surrounding quadrants
    • Ahead of Me – street names, buildings, businesses coming up

     

    Aira App

    A new assisted navigation service provided by trained agents viewing your location by live video.

    • Log in as a guest to try in fee-free locations like Walgreens, AT&T, Wegmans and a growing list of airports and businesses
    • Also available for a monthly subscription starting at $89. for 100 minutes

     

    Be My Eyes App

    This app provides live video access to a network of 1 million volunteers helping 80 thousand people with vision loss in 180 countries.

    • Average wait for a volunteer: 30 seconds
    • Get help with appliances, electronics, instructions, identification, etc.
    • Not recommended to share private information
    • Newly partnered with Microsoft Disability Desk


    GalaPro App

    The app making New York’s Broadway shows accessible to audience members with vision and hearing loss, from the privacy of their own mobile phone. Read more about GalaPro in our article here.
    • Audio descriptions syncs with live performance
    • An accessibility kiosk in every theater helps get you started
    • Also, offers closed captioning and language translation 

     

    More App Happy audience favorites:

    Amazon App

    • Now with access to live Disability Hotline 888-283-1678 for shopping assistance.

     

    Alexa App

    • For Book Reading, Shopping, Calendar, Music, Recipes, Games, Translation and more.

     

    Amazon Prime Video App

    • Watch Prime Video on numerous devices with audio description.

     

    Apple News App

    • The standard iOS app that provides access to a large selection of curated news from major outlets including New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Vanity Fair, Bloomberg, CNN, Food Network and more.

     

    NFB Newsline App (iOS Only) 

    • The National Federation of the Blind now offers an app for iOS that extends their newspaper reading service to over 300 publications, for eligible users.

     

    Shazam App

    • An entertaining app that identifies music, movies, TV, and ads, after hearing just a short snippet. Apple recently bought the technology and now offers it on iOS, Mac OS, TV OS, and Watch OS.

     

    Drop us a note by email, or post a comment on our Facebook.