Assistive Technologies for Individuals with Low Vision

Contents

Why is it important?

Millions of people worldwide experience low vision, a condition that significantly impairs their ability to read, recognize faces, or navigate their surroundings. While complete blindness requires specific assistive technologies, individuals with low vision benefit from a wide range of tools that enhance contrast, magnify content, and utilize advanced computing solutions. This article explores assistive technologies (AT) designed to support people with low vision, categorized into low-tech, high-tech, and software-based solutions.

Low-Tech Assistive Technologies

Low-tech AT includes simple, cost-effective tools that enhance visibility and accessibility.

  • Magnifiers: Handheld or stand-mounted magnifiers help enlarge printed text and images for easier reading [1].
  • High-Contrast and Large-Print Materials: Books, labels, and keyboards with bold, high-contrast text improve readability [2].
  • Tactile Markings: Raised dots and tactile indicators help individuals with low vision identify buttons, switches, and frequently used objects [3].
A person using a handheld magnifier to read a book.

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High-Tech Assistive Technologies

High-tech AT integrates electronic devices and advanced optical systems to improve visual accessibility.

  • Electronic Magnifiers (CCTVs): Desktop or portable digital magnifiers that enlarge and enhance text and images on a screen [4].
  • Smart Glasses: Wearable devices that enhance vision by adjusting contrast, magnifying content, or providing auditory feedback about surroundings [5].
  • Screen Magnification Devices: Hardware-based systems that connect to computers or televisions to enlarge on-screen content [6].
A person using a desktop electronic magnifier to read a newspaper.

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Software-Based Assistive Technologies

Various software applications are designed to support individuals with low vision in their daily activities.

  • Screen Magnification Software: Programs like ZoomText and Windows Magnifier enlarge digital content for easier viewing [7].
  • Contrast Enhancement and Color Filters: Software that allows users to adjust brightness, contrast, and colors to suit their visual needs [8].
  • Text-to-Speech Software: Applications that read aloud digital text, enabling individuals with severe low vision to access written content [9].
A laptop screen displaying screen magnification software.

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Emerging Technologies

Innovative technologies continue to push the boundaries of accessibility for individuals with low vision.

  • Augmented Reality (AR) for Vision Assistance: AR applications and headsets provide enhanced vision by overlaying digital information onto real-world environments [10].
  • AI-Powered Object Recognition: Smart devices that identify and describe objects, signs, and facial expressions using artificial intelligence [11].
  • Wearable Visual Prosthetics: Advanced visual enhancement systems that provide digital overlays or audio cues for better environmental awareness [12].
A person wearing smart glasses designed to enhance vision.

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Choosing the Right Assistive Technology

Selecting the appropriate AT depends on the severity of low vision, personal preferences, and daily tasks. Consulting an optometrist, low-vision specialist, or assistive technology expert ensures that individuals receive personalized solutions [2].

A specialist assisting a person with low vision in selecting assistive devices.

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Conclusion

Assistive technologies for individuals with low vision continue to evolve, offering greater independence and accessibility. With the right combination of low-tech, high-tech, and software-based tools, individuals can navigate their surroundings, read, and engage with digital content more effectively.

Sources

  1. American Printing House for the Blind – Low Vision Devices: An Overview
  2. National Eye Institute – Low Vision Resources
  3. World Health Organization – Assistive Devices
  4. New England Low Vision – Introduction to Electronic Handheld Magnifiers and Wearable Devices: A Comprehensive Guide
  5. Top 5 Accessibility – Smart Glasses for the Visually Impaired
  6. Journal of Visual Impairment – Screen Magnification Technology
  7. Microsoft Support – Use Magnifier to make things on the screen easier to see
  8. Microsoft Support – Use color filters in Windows
  9. Temple University – Text-to-Speech
  10. Forbes – How AR Glasses Could Benefit The Blind
  11. Accessiblu – Harnessing AI for Accessibility
  12. Science Direct – Visual Prosthesis

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