Blind and Visually Impaired Community
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My mum has AMD and frequently falls / stumbles - any ideas what gadget might help (self.Blind)
submitted by lapaloma1
Dear all, this is my first post on Reddit and I am seeking help.
My mum (75) has advanced AMD and frequently falls on the street. 2 days ago it happened again. She refuses to take someones arm at night and I am getting really concerned. Are there any recommendable gadgets or even techniques around that I can drop into her life to ease this situation. I don't live with her (she is in Germany and I am in the UK ) - she is alright in her flat where everything has its place, but she also really likes to get out on the street. Are there any other people on her with advanced AMD that have any kind of tips. Much appreciated. Thanks. Lapaloma1
My mum (75) has advanced AMD and frequently falls on the street. 2 days ago it happened again. She refuses to take someones arm at night and I am getting really concerned. Are there any recommendable gadgets or even techniques around that I can drop into her life to ease this situation. I don't live with her (she is in Germany and I am in the UK ) - she is alright in her flat where everything has its place, but she also really likes to get out on the street. Are there any other people on her with advanced AMD that have any kind of tips. Much appreciated. Thanks. Lapaloma1
pokersnek 3 points 5y ago
Well, if she refuses to take someone’s arm, she would probably really hate the idea of using a cane to help her find obstacles or drop offs.
There are devices that use sonar to detect objects and then transmit a vibration in to the hand of the user. Check out the Mini Guide from APH. The biggest issue with this kind of device is that it will not detect a drop off, so curbs and stairs can still pose a hazard.
She may need to focus more on scanning with her eyes. I know that her central vision is going to be her weakness, but if she adds movement to her eyes or head, it will increase what she sees. Try a left to right to left pattern. Then maybe add a downward pendulum motion. It takes practice and training to use these scanning techniques, but they can make a big difference.
There are devices that use sonar to detect objects and then transmit a vibration in to the hand of the user. Check out the Mini Guide from APH. The biggest issue with this kind of device is that it will not detect a drop off, so curbs and stairs can still pose a hazard.
She may need to focus more on scanning with her eyes. I know that her central vision is going to be her weakness, but if she adds movement to her eyes or head, it will increase what she sees. Try a left to right to left pattern. Then maybe add a downward pendulum motion. It takes practice and training to use these scanning techniques, but they can make a big difference.
lapaloma1 [OP] 1 points 5y ago
Thanks pokersnkek. I am seeing her next weekend and will try to explain the scanning technique.
Where do I find the Miniguide from APH ? Sorry, new to this Forum so not sure where to search. Many thanks. lapaloma1
Where do I find the Miniguide from APH ? Sorry, new to this Forum so not sure where to search. Many thanks. lapaloma1
pokersnek 3 points 5y ago
https://shop.aph.org/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_Miniguide%20US_1189771P_10001_11051
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