It is important to know that a person with low vision, and even those who experience significant vision loss, can learn strategies to perform many daily tasks safely and independently. The following tips may help you or a loved one better navigate your home safely, gain more independence, and maintain a higher quality of life. Hopefully, these suggestions will help you simplify the activities you perform in your daily life.
- Use contrasting colors for cups, cutting boards, plates etc. for example, use a white mug for coffee.
- Ask the pharmacy for large print labels on prescription bottles.
- Adjust blinds and drapes to manage glare coming in from sunny windows.
- Ask the bank for large print checks and a large print check register.
- Increase text size and screen brightness on computers, tablets, and smart phones.
- Use a flashlight to help you see thermostats and electrical outlets.
- Use a signature guide or check writing guide to help stay in the lines.
- Use bold-lined and wide-ruled paper along with a bold pen for easier writing.
- Use a funnel for pouring water into a coffee pot to prevent spilling.
- Use nightlights and bedside lamps to prevent falls at night.
- Bring a flashlight or handheld illuminated magnifier with you to restaurants to help read menus.
- Change out soft white lightbulbs to LED daylight bulbs to increase brightness in your home.
- Use a tabletop gooseneck task lamp for reading, preparing food, organizing medications, etc.
- Remove trip hazards like scatter rugs and cords.
- Stay organized, for example, always put the milk in the same spot and ask friends and family to do the same.
Living with vision loss at any age can be frustrating, but simple changes can increase your quality of life and independence. Although this list is not comprehensive, these are a few common suggestions. In the home, you can take steps to reduce the need for additional help by removing safety hazards, lighting the home well, making use of organization, and investing in some helpful items. At Future In Sight, we offer suggestions like these to our clients in addition to many aids and devices that can help simplify the activities they perform in daily life.
If you or someone you love could benefit from the services we provide to those of all ages who are blind and visually impaired, contact Future In Sight at [email protected] or 603-224-4039 today!
About the Author: Brianne Stone is the Care Coordinator Supervisor at Future In Sight.