Help for Blind People
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Independent Quality Living For the Blind
Picture shows Braille Slate
and stylus.We will here refer to the blind and visually impaired simply as "the blind". This is just to make it simple. There are different degrees of handicap, and a person doesn't have to be completely blind to benefit from these gadgets.
What is Braille?
Aid for the blind
This invention enables a blind person to read and write. There are Braille displays that can be connected to a normal computer, making it possible to "see" the screen. A fantastic invention, indeed.
Read more about The History of Braille!
(Picture Credit)
Guide-Dogs
Not exactly a gadget...
Guide dogs are immensely important to blind people. They are trained to guide their owner through traffic and disturbances, all the time remaining calm. Usually it is best not to pet a guide dog, they are at work and should not be disturbed. When training a guide-dog, the trainer often ties a scarf over his own eyes. In this way he knows better how it will be for the blind when walking with the dog.There are many things you can do to support the organizations that provide and train guide-dogs. Fundraising, volunteering, but also puppy sponsoring.
Read more about Guidedogs in the UK - Guidedogs of America - Lions foundation for guiddogs in Canada - Guidedogs in Australia
Get picture of Guide Dog For the Blind here
Want to know how to dress before going out?
When you can't just look out of the window
Indoor Outdoor Talking Thermometer by Voice Zone - Indoor Outdoor Talking Thermometer by Voice Zone - 8846UT
Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 06/02/2012)
The attractive Indoor/Outdoor Talking Thermometer contains a large dual display showing both the indoor and outdoor temperatures, and at the touch of a button announces them verbally. It is easy switch between temperatures and to use in general.
Are the kids sick?
Do they have fever?
Digital Talking Thermometer
Amazon Price: $26.85 (as of 06/02/2012)
A simple thing like checking if the kids are sick can be impossible if you don't see well. A thermometer that talks is the solution.
Technology for the blind
The 21st century
Even today there are gadgets that help a blind person know if the light is on or off. Getting even more advanced than that, researchers are constantly working on developing the gadgets which tell a person what is in front of him. You might describe it as electronic eyes.Cognitive Aid System
PDA for the blind
Car for the blind
(Picture Credit)
How is your blood-pressure?
LifeSource UA-767T Talking Auto Inflate Blood Pressure Monitor
Amazon Price: $104.00 (as of 06/03/2012)
Many people need to check their blood-pressure on a daily basis. With this monitor, it is possible to do it at home, without being dependent on anybody.
Playing games
Brailled Monopoly
Amazon Price: $89.95 (as of 06/02/2012)
Whether winter or summer, all of us enjoy a good board-game. Now, your blind friends can join without problem. For more games for the blind, have a look here: Games For the Blind
How can you help somebody who is blind?
- First of all- ask them! Don't presume that they need help in a particular way.
- Usually a blind person doesn't like being led, but prefers holding on to you.
- You can tell them where things are instead of giving it to them. True, it takes a bit of thinking of how to describe things, but it will be appreciated.
- Dont' put stuff where they can trip over it.
- Keep things in the same place all the time.
- Write labels in Braille.
- Describe the world to them, including details.
- Remember that they have a problem with the eyes, not the brain.
For the Computer
Braille
Braille Keyboard Stickers for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 06/03/2012)
Since these stickers are made of transparent plastic, the keyboard can be used by everybody. It becomes bilingual, so to speak.
Knitting or Reading?
Move it to where you are sitting.
Fulcrum Magnifier 12 LED Floor Lamp
Amazon Price: $64.52 (as of 06/02/2012)
For those who can see a bit, this can make a big difference. Instead of straining the eyes to see, use this magnifier with light.
Braille Note
A really thin and light-weight Braille computer
(Picture Credit)
iPhone
iPad
iPhone 3G 8GB (Unlocked)
Amazon Price: $228.00 (as of 06/02/2012)
Apple's iPhone has a built-in synthetic speech which is really good and clear. It enables a blind person to use the phone, as well as navigate on the Internet. The same with iPad.
Some useful links
- Maxiaids.com
- Blind, deaf, mobility, and more!
- Independentliving.com
- Independent Living Aids is the oldest, privately-held, direct marketing/distribution company in the United States of products for people who are blind or have low vision.
- National Federation of the Blind
- In their shop you can find many products for the home and work. Magnifiers, clothing organizers, measuring scoops,etc.
- Royal National Instituteof Blind people (UK)
- We sell thousands of products and publications that help blind and partially sighted people live independently. Browse, search and buy from our full range online for delivery straight to your door.
- The Accesible Friends' Network
- Specialist Products for Blind and Visually Impaired People. This is like a directory for finding links!
- Cobolt (UK)
- Products for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Suppliers of Audible Products - Humanware.com
- Different electronical devices that are useful for the blind, such as BrailleNote, Victor Reader, Smart View Magnifier
Would You Like to Learn Braille?
Braille for the Sighted (Beginning Braille)
Amazon Price: $6.95 (as of 06/02/2012)
There are a number of reasons why a seeing person would like to learn Braille. Maybe you have a family member who is blind, knowing Braille can give you more options to help him/her. Are you a teacher with a blind child in your class? Or do you just want to find out more about reading Braille?
Books about or by blind people
Braille Books for Children
These books can be used by blind parents when they want to read to their children, something which is often a problem. Even good for children who know Braille.
Blind and Fit
Who said you need eyes to be a good athlete? These blind people practice Archery, Swimming, Bicycling, Judo, Wrestling, and more! United States Association of Blind Athletes
(Picture Credit))
Watching TV
2.1X Eschenbach Max TV Glasses Distance Viewing
Amazon Price: $87.90 (as of 06/02/2012)
Television Remote Control
LIGHTED BIG BUTTON TV REMOTE CONTROL - For The Blind and Low Vision.
Amazon Price: $15.53 (as of 06/02/2012)
Some people have enough vision to watch television. Many programs can be enjoyed without seeing much, too. This is a simple idea which can make a big difference; each button has a different shape, and there is also light behind the buttons.
Should They Be Made to Pay?
Only to know your opinion, not to be controversial
All these products for the blind are very costly. In many countries the government is subsidizing, often giving out computers and other gadgets for free. Is this right? Should tax money be used for this?
Is it right to give these products for free (or cheap) to the blind?
No, they should pay like anybody else.
Cari_Kay says:
I think churches and other organizations should be doing far more to help those in need. As people have pointed out, check out your local DMV to see how efficient the government truly is :) Honestly, I think we as people need to do more.
wrapitup4me says:
I think it depends on their personal financial situation - some people who are blind also happen to have lots of money. Those who cannot afford these aids should not have to pay and the bureaucracy should not be inhumane.
Ladyeaglefeather says:
I am legally blind. Which, means, I can see but even with a good pair of glasses. I will never have 20/20 vision. I have manage, to get the things that I need. I do, think, that if people need the help it should be giving, though.
laporter79 says:
no...sorry. I am not a fan of socialized medicine.
KimGiancaterino says:
I believe there should be generous tax credits for purchases that assist people with their disabilities. Unfortunately, government is the least inefficient way to help people, at least in my country. Everything costs more and only serves the bureaucracy.
Yes, these are things to help them cope with basic life.
Atreyusmommy says:
I think that there should be more free and cheaper products for the blind
Deadicated says:
Yes, they should get all the help they need to be productive; I'm sure the unemployment rate is higher among the blind than the average person that isn't sight impaired in any way.
bechand says:
matters how expensive and how needed the item is. If someone NEEDS something and CANNOT afford it, I do think programs are important. I am an occupational therapist that sees people get stuff they don't need, and people that can afford get stuff just due to disability. I think it is all relative ...
GreenOasis says:
Yes it should
srsddn says:
I think a mixed approach has to adopted on this issue. Those who cannot afford costly gadgets must be provided free. Those who can afford to pay may have these on subsidized rates. The approach may vary from country to country.
Very happy with my Purple Star and Blessings. Thank you!
Amazing Blind People
- Sabriye Tenberken
- This is the story of a blind, young woman from Germany who traveled to Tibet to start a school for blind children.
- Erik Weihenmayer
- The first blind person to conquer Mount Everest, he did not stop there. Not only a mountain climber, but also a motivational speaker and a father.
- Stash
- See how a blind man does an ice-skating tribute to Michael Jackson
- Helen Keller
- World famous woman who has inspired many to take hold of their lives. Read some of her most well-known quotes.
- Stevie Wonder
- One of history's greatest artists, blind. Visit his web-site.
- I just called...
- Listen to one of Stevie Wonder's hits.
Jewelry, 
Tips for Parents of Visually Impaired Children
Having a visually-impaired child will present its own unique challenges to the parents. It is possible, though, to alleviate a lot of the problems your child might encounter, with a little forethought. It is important to children not to feel too different from others. To this end, try to smooth the way for the child, helping him adjust to certain situations. ....Here are some tips.
Blind School Children in Brooklyn
Do you know somebody blind?
Anybody is welcome to comment!
Have you seen something in this lens that might be useful? If so, please let us know. It is always nice to know when somebody can benefit from our work.
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SoundFinance May 15, 2012 @ 6:38 am | delete
- Thanks for sharing this great informations:)
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Atreyusmommy May 12, 2012 @ 1:57 pm | delete
- Great lens. I added you to my featured lens under the Visually impaired section of my Support Circle lens. Thank you so much for sharing. There is so much great info on this lens of yours.
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alibilal
May 10, 2012 @ 5:32 am | delete
- Great lens. Thanks for sharing your lens with us.
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daria369
Apr 1, 2012 @ 9:17 pm | delete
- Great lens and information, thank you!! :)
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pawpaw911
Mar 26, 2012 @ 8:21 am | delete
- Great information and resources.
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Lauriej1
Mar 17, 2012 @ 10:53 am | delete
- What a beautiful lens! Thank you so much for sharing!
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bechand
Mar 10, 2012 @ 10:50 am | delete
- There are some other great items for blind people - I am an occupational therapist and I think this is a great lens. I deal with the blind regularly and I often am showing them great products at work ! Thanks for putting it out there for the public.
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GreenOasis
Mar 4, 2012 @ 5:44 am | delete
- Great and very informative lens.
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Ladyeaglefeather
Feb 29, 2012 @ 8:19 am | delete
- I love this lens. Very helpful.
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navalava
Feb 26, 2012 @ 9:34 am | delete
- Excellent lens, very informative!
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wheresthekarma
Feb 25, 2012 @ 12:47 am | delete
- I used to work in a group home and took care of people who were blind. Interesting lens.
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JollyJ
Feb 23, 2012 @ 1:37 am | delete
- very useful information... bless you
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sherridan
Feb 22, 2012 @ 3:15 am | delete
- Wonderful lens - interesting and thought provoking
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austinparker
Feb 21, 2012 @ 12:38 pm | delete
- The video was interesting. I never understood what it must look like.
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cffutah
Feb 20, 2012 @ 7:46 pm | delete
- Alot of things you said on here have had me pause to ponder before continuing to read your article. Thank you for the time spent on this.
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Louisa Dembul-Mujjen
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Being blind or having low vision is not easy. Independent living can be a challenge. Fortunately, technology for the blind is constantly developing. G... more »
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Timer
General Tools TI150 3-in-1 Timer for the Visually and Hearing Impaired
Amazon Price: $18.99 (as of 06/03/2012)
Optical Magnifier
Carson Optical Ezread Visual Aide Magnifier
Amazon Price: $60.00 (as of 06/02/2012)
Connect the device with your TV. When you place it over the text you wish to read, it will appear on the TV-screen in full color.Magnifies up to 12.2x, depending on the size of the TV.
Perkins Type Writer
Perkins Next Generation Brailler (Midnight Blue)
Amazon Price: $710.00 (as of 06/02/2012)
This is the latest version of the famous Perkins Braille type writer. It is much lighter and also more quiet. In many European countries, these kind of type-writers are given for free to those who need them. Elsewhere you have to buy it yourself.
