Our Equipment and Accessibility Worker Karen recently carried out a home visit appointment with Mrs Jones, who has Macular Degeneration. Mrs Jones was interested in any items or pieces of low vision equipment that could help her to continue living independently at home.  

Mrs Jones missed reading so Karen explained about RNIB’s free Talking Book Service, which she was keen to try. Karen registered her to receive audio books on USB sticks and then made a referral to the British Wireless for the Blind Fund for a free USB player to listen to the books.

Karen became aware Mrs Jones struggled with making hot drinks, often over filling the cup, so she demonstrated a Liquid Level Indicator which Mrs Jones tried and found immediately helpful.

Karen also demonstrated a big button landline phone and large print calendars diaries.

Mrs Jones finds it difficult to use her cooker and washing machine, so Karen applied bump-ons (self-adhesive raised tactile bumps) to mark the settings and functions to the kitchen appliances.

Mrs Jones explained that her handheld magnifier was not strong enough and no longer useful. Karen carried out a magnification assessment which showed that a 3x strength handheld magnifier would work best. Karen discussed the options of purchasing one from the supplier or being referred to the local Low Vision Clinic where one could be obtained on a long-term loan basis. Mrs Jones chose to be referred.

Karen followed up her visit with a phone call to see how Mrs Jones was getting on. At her Low Vision Clinic appointment Mrs Jones was not only provided with the handheld magnifier but also a magnifying desk lamp, a hands-free magnifier, a pocket magnifier to take shopping and a pair of eye shields to help with sunlight and glare.

Mrs Jones told Karen how much she is enjoying listening to her audio books and has found a love of books again.

Mrs Jones said all the pieces of equipment are a great help to her.

“CamSight has been so helpful and supportive. You’ve made a huge difference to my life. It feels like a light has been switched on and I am enjoying life again.”

 

If you would like equipment and accessibility support, please complete the online referral form, or contact us by email or phone 01223 420033.