Technology such as screen readers and smart devices can dramatically improve the ability of those with sight loss to navigate their world.

In our last article, we provided some insight into how somebody who is visually impaired navigates the world with their disability. Here, we will take a look at some of the ways technology can foster independence and allow those with low vision or blindness to lead satisfying and productive lives.

Vision loss most commonly affects older adults. Approximately 300,000 Montanans are 55 years of age or older. Of this group, an estimated 60,000, or one in five, will experience vision loss as part of the aging process. To retain their independence, these older adults will need to learn and use alternative nonvisual techniques and tools.

There is a tremendous variety of products, both high and low tech, to help with vision loss. Collectively known as assistive technology, these items help people overcome limitations created by physical or developmental disabilities. You may see the term “adaptive technology.” Used interchangeably with assistive technology, but there is a difference between them. “Assistive technology” refers to products that improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. Adaptive technology, on the other hand, is something that is specifically designed for persons with disabilities. An example of assistive tech could be audiobooks. They are used predominantly by people without disabilities but are essential for those with sight loss. In contrast, Braille signs in public places would be used almost exclusively by persons who are visually impaired.

For those with low vision, assistive tech can be as simple as improved lighting, magnifiers or large print reading materials. There are large print playing cards and puzzles, and your bank can supply large print checks. And there is all manner of talking devices such as watches, timers, kitchen scales and thermometers, blood glucose and blood pressure monitors, wall thermostats, and smart speakers.

People with more advanced vision loss may need to learn how to use screen readers. Screen reading software is embedded in Windows operating systems as well as Apple and Android devices. There is also open-source software such as NVDA and proprietary systems such as JAWS. Learning to use screen readers takes effort, but they are invaluable tools. In addition, Braille is still in use, and Hadley School can supply instruction remotely. Indeed, their online resources cover a multitude of topics on adapting to vision loss.

For those who use smartphones, there is an ever-expanding universe of apps to help with everyday tasks. The phone’s camera can be pointed at a sign to have it read out loud. The camera can also be used with an app to identify currency, colors, features of the local environment, and products in stores via the bar code. There are also services that allow a person with a vision disability to connect with a sighted assistant.

The key to any assistive technology or adaptive technique is to integrate it into your life such that it just becomes the new way you do things. To be sure, it takes time and patience. Support from family, friends and community is key to make this transition successful. But working together, we can ensure that those facing vision loss maintain their dignity and independence.

You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back. The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future.To contact the Missoula chapter of the NFB, email us at missoulachapter@nfbofmt.org