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Blind and Visually Impaired Community

Full History - 2020 - 08 - 22 - ID#ieqg5i
2
Elderly parent losing vision, how to help? (self.Blind)
submitted by waveysue
My mom has lost her vision one eye and the other is also in trouble (glaucoma). She’s very worried and I’d like to try to be proactive and use the next few months to get her ready for when she won’t be able to see much (or at all).
A few details: She 85, lives in assisted living in my area, and her memory is not great. She is comfortable using an iPad for basics (email, kindle). She lives with my dad who is 92 and can more or less navigate the tv and Netflix. What are some important things to organize while she can still see?
Thanks so much.
KillerLag 1 points 2y ago
When you say her memory isn't that great, does she have anything diagnosed? Because that could be a sign of greater loss over time. I've had clients who I have been seeing for months who forgets who I am, which makes retaining some of my training.... difficult.

While she can see, try to get her used to using tactile markers for identifying things. So she can visually see it, but also feel the tactile marker (say, velcro sticks, bump dots, fabric paint markings, etc).

You mentioned iPad basics. Maybe have her try out VoiceOver and see how she likes it. If she is interested, you can check into getting her training with it.
waveysue [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Thanks so much for the ideas. No, nothing has been diagnosed yet re the forgetfulness, but family notices it and I think it would make hard to learn a entirely new skill.

I’ll take a look at voice over. I’m not quite sure how to use the tactile markers you mention, is there a website or other resource I can learn from?
KillerLag 1 points 2y ago
The markers are usually used to differentiate between similiar things. One common example is shampoo and conditioner, which often comes in similiar bottles. One method of differentiating them is to put an elastic around one bottle.

For something like differentiating between spices (for cooking), she can add the hook side of Velcro for one spice, and the loop side of Velcro for another. Although, spices can often be differentiated by smell, too.

Another example is cans of soup. If she has trouble reading the labels, she can use magnetic letters (like, the ones kids often use on fridges) to put a letter as a reminder for what is in the can (B for Beans, C for Corn, etc). The system isn't perfect, but it helps with common items she uses more often. Much of that stuff can also be gotten at a dollar store.
waveysue [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Great ideas, thanks so much!!
KillerLag 1 points 2y ago
No problem. Depending on where you live, you should also have them get in touch with the local rehabilitation services. they can arrange for training, and also discuss other support as well. some health agencies also help provide funding for equipment.
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