Is there any equipment available to assist my child with vision impairment?
Low vision clinics, Qualified Teachers of Vision Impairment (QTVIs) and some local sight loss organisations may be able to support you in deciding on the equipment that best suits your child.
Some specialist items that professionals might help you consider include:
Non-optical - these are things with no lenses:
-
reading stands
-
bold markers
-
dark lined paper
-
large print calculators
-
digital recorders
-
visors and tinted glasses to reduce glare
-
appropriate lighting
-
coloured overlays to provide contrast
-
slates and styluses
-
talking dictionaries
Optical – things with lenses:
-
handheld magnifiers
-
large free-standing magnifiers
-
screen magnifiers
-
monoculars
Technological
Please ask your QTVI about using specialist technology such as:
-
Phones
-
Tablets
-
Computers
Resource centres
Resource centres are run by many sight loss organisations around the UK. You can visit to view, try and buy a range of equipment, these centres often run using experienced volunteers or staff.
RNIB Shop gives an overview of specialist equipment for home use and linked resource centres in London, Belfast and Edinburgh:
Sight Village also runs product and equipment exhibitions in various UK locations :
RNIB Specialist Advice Service Advisors can give further information on this topic
