Talking tools for help with vision

Devices that will speak to the patient

Auditory aids may be useful as the person in your care learns to use his other senses to adapt to his low vision.

*Talking devices. Many of these are available, including watches, scales, meat thermometers, and liquid level guides (for pouring liquids).

*Recorded books, newspapers, and magazines. Someone with low vision can access myriad published works via cassettes, CDs, or computer downloads onto an iPod. He can also listen to newspapers on the phone via the National Federation for the Blind. Its toll-free number is (866) 504-7300.

*Reading machines. These are scanners with voice output, and they can take typewritten material and read it aloud. Some can be hooked up to a personal computer, and certain software can turn a personal computer into a reading machine.

*Narrated TV programs. If the person in your care enjoys television, you might look into narration of programs for those with low or no vision. To find out more, visit the Narrative Television Network.

• Talking bar code scanner. This device is ideal for shopping. The user swipes the scanner around the product (no need to find the code), and the device will read aloud the nutritional information, instructions, package size, warnings, and so on.

*Talking labels. If he takes medication, he can purchase software that will enable his pharmacist to place a label on his medication that he can later listen to by using a handheld reader.

Devices he can talk to

*Voice-recognition software. One of the most exciting developments for those with low vision has been voice-recognition software, which allows them to dictate letters onto a computer.

*Voice-activated dialing. A cell phone with this feature is available, and it means you won't need to use the tiny cell phone buttons to manually dial for help -- or to chat on the phone. (Phones with large, illuminated buttons are also available.)

Ask for what you need

There are many, many more aids that might be useful -- from writing templates to help him write out checks to eye-saver light bulbs that focus the maximum light on the reading or task at hand. If the person in your care is having trouble performing a particular task, ask yourself -- and the low-vision store -- what kind of aid might be useful. There's a good chance something appropriate is available; maybe you just haven't figured out what it's called yet.