Exploring Vision @ SRC Pt 2

Gadgets Help See the Details

Saratoga Retirement members hear from Explorer Tsing, who first describes and then demonstrates a pair of Mighty Sight glasses with special lenses and embedded LED lights which she finds handy for reading. Another member then shows the group a similar device, the Yoctosun magnifying glasses with LED light and a set of graduated lenses which can be interchanged according to the need for magnification. He uses the glasses for close work such as replacing watch batteries or when soldering fine wire. 

As well, another member suggests taking a picture of a menu poster to have a closer look at the list while approaching the order counter. Finally, Don shows the group how he uses his Apple TV device to mirror his screen onto his television to magnify the screen.

Other Magnification Devices

The group listened (and watched via screen sharing) to a talk about some innovative and sophistocated hand held vision aids, including the Amigo HD Electronic Portable Magnifier and the Ruby Handheld Video Magnifier. This type of magnifier works best on paper, and using a built in camera allows for changing the level of magnification. Essentially, they are a better version of the magnifying glass.

     Q: What is the difference between this and the camera of an iPad or smartphone? Can magnification be achieved on an iPad?                         A: Don points out that an iPad lens accessory is available for photo magnification.  

Another class of devices includes a headset with a built-in camera system for users with macular degeneration, and also the OrCam, a pair of glasses with a speaker embedded in the earpiece and a camera and software to convert text to sound. There is also one which can convert text or a photographic image to speech.

Members discuss the EyeReader smartphone app which provides both magnification and light for reading small text in low light environments. 

When the group is asked what other types of devices they might want to see, John responded that he would like to see zoom lenses on eyeglasses. 

Common Vision Problems in Older Adults

The Explorer group discussion touched on several vision problems that they themselves or their friends were having, including:

• resolution
• contrast
• color separation
• cataracts
• strabismus
• macular degeneration

In summary, the group concurs that the most common vision needs among older adults seem to be for magnification and contrast, as well as some special help for those with macular degeneration.