Helping someone at home with low vision

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Tue, 05/04/2011 - 3:14pm

A large button phone is ideal for people with low vision.

If you are caring for an ageing person with low vision adapt the home environment and encourage the use of low vision aids.

There are many practical things you can do to help a person remain independent in the home.

Make sure the lighting is even in every room. Use fluorescent bulbs that diffuse light. Ensure kitchen and bathroom areas are well lit.
Reduce and control glare. Ensure lighting comes from behind. Use curtains and blinds to reduce glare from windows. Wear a hat and sunglasses outside.
Place reading lamps beside beds as opposed to above the head. Wide lamps with long adjustable arms are better for reading, needlework and near tasks. Position the lamp with the shade below eye level with the light shining onto an object at a 45 degree angle to reduce glare reflecting into the eyes.
Keep torches handy in a handbag, car and by the bed.

Place certain items like clothes, food and appliances in specific spots in the house. Arrange things together, walking and feeling your way through the process.
Remove hazards like low tables and power cords.
Use sofas and chairs with steady armrests for support and mobility.
Highlight light switches, phones, keyholes and appliances with fluorescent tape or markers.
Use contrast to make items stand out e.g. use dark coloured towels in a white bathroom, dark chopping boards on a light kitchen bench top.
Place a chair near the front door; it can take longer for a person with low vision to adjust their eyes to the dim light of indoors.
Highlight step edges with contrasting tape or paint.

Label food containers in large lettering with a highlighter.
Sort items in cupboards using the clock method of placing tea at 2 o'clock.
Reduce items in cupboards and place in specified areas.
Keep items such as keys and money in one designated spot.
Sort out notes into different sections in a wallet (use a coin sorter to identify between coins).
Label medication bottles with a black marker.
Keep a magnifying glass handy.
Place tactile markers such as Velcro on locks to help fit keys.

Coin holders help identify and organise different coins. They fit easily into a handbag and help a person access small change.
A wide shade task light with an adjustable arm is great for concentrating on near tasks such as reading and needlework.
Portable handheld magnifiers help with identifying fine detail can be taken to the shops for reading food labels and bills.
Liquid level indicators hook onto a cup and alarm when the liquid reaches the top.

Vision Australia is a valuable resource for anyone with low vision. Find useful fact sheets, assistance with low vision aids and hints to maintaining independence. They can also direct you to a support group. Call 1300 84 74 66.

References
Vision Australia
Fact sheets, General Information
Accessed 09/08/08