How the Visually Impaired Can Plan for the Upcoming Holiday Season

The holiday season is just around the corner. We know it is a special time to gather with friends and family and eat delicious food while socializing with people you hold dear. To celebrate those old traditions and start new ones. But how do you prepare for this year’s joyful celebration if you are new to vision loss? How do you incorporate your vision impairment into a merry experience? If you are feeling nervous or anxious about the upcoming holidays, don’t despair. Browse these suggestions to plan for a jolly and memorable time of year.

Tasks take more time 

Remember, adjusting to vision loss takes more time. Cooking, cleaning, getting dressed, and even simple things like brushing your teeth will take time. So keep that in mind when preparing for the holidays. If you are going to cook a favorite dish or decorate the house, it might take more time than before. Giving yourself ample time will make these tasks more enjoyable and less stressful.

Ask for help

Since these tasks will take longer, having to do it all yourself can be overwhelming. Asking others to help can relieve some of the stress and pressure. It can also make the time more pleasurable. Grab a mug of your favorite warm drink and call a friend to trim the tree, wrap gifts, or stamp holiday cards to mail.

Options for holiday shopping

The holidays are the time for gift giving and usually means shopping for that special someone. Visually impaired people have some options when it comes to shopping. Many retail stores will offer a sighted employee to assist in their stores. Just ask for assistance at the customer service counter, but call ahead to ensure help is available for your trip. You can also shop online as well. Websites like Amazon and Target have made commitments to help those with vision loss shop on their websites. Whatever ways you choose, plan carefully so you have plenty of time and don’t get caught up in the last-minute shopping craze.

Fun holiday entertainment 

A visual impairment doesn’t mean a total stop in having fun and enjoying entertainment with friends and family. Whether playing board games or cards, watching your favorite holiday movie, or attending a live performance, learning to make some adaptations will allow you to enjoy those festive moments. Many board games and playing cards have been adapted for people with vision loss, such as checkers, Uno, Bingo, Scrabble, and Monopoly. Watch your favorite Christmas movies in audio description. Many movies are accessible with this feature, either through home entertainment services or at your local movie theater.

Cooking favorite holiday dishes

Modify your special holiday recipes by transferring them into large print or an audio recording. Learn new recipes by borrowing audio cookbooks from your local library or the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled. Use adaptive kitchen aids like long-arm oven mitts, low-vision cutting boards, talking food scales, low-vision and talking measuring cups, double-sided spatulas, and metal spice measuring spoons. These accessible tools will help you prepare your favorite dishes and regain your self-confidence in the kitchen.

Holiday travel

Whether you travel close to home or long distance, it is important to prepare in advance. The holiday season brings on colder temperatures, so dress appropriately, check the weather report before leaving, and share your destination with friends and family. Consider alternative travel methods like taxi cabs, shared rides, public transportation, or asking a friend or family member. If traveling long distances, such as on a plane or train, learn about disability services and how to get assistance.

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and cheer. Your vision impairment doesn’t have to stop you from loving this festive time of year. With some planning, preparation, and even soliciting help, you can still have a joyous season with vision loss. The Outlook Enrichment team is here to assist those who deal with vision impairment as they make their holiday plans. Contact us if you need additional resources, and have a great holiday season!

Why Guide Dogs Are Not for All Visually Impaired People

When people think of braille, they assume all blind and visually impaired people read it. However, that is only sometimes the case because some people with vision loss might read large print with magnification or use an audio format. The same logic is sometimes applied to guide dogs. If a person is blind or visually impaired, it’s assumed that they should travel with a guide dog. The assumption is that these well-trained animals will provide the best mode of travel and mobility.

We published a previous post last year about beginning the process of using a guide dog. This experience can be rewarding for blind and visually impaired guide dog users.

However, before you commit to a guide dog, it is essential to consider your options carefully. Guide dogs for the blind make great companions and guides but require time, energy, and training. Plus, one must look at their home and work environment to be sure a guide dog would fit in that space. Another thing to consider is one’s overall physical and mental health. In honor of National Guide Dog Month, let’s examine why guide dogs might not be a good fit for you.

A working animal, not a pet.

The first thing to understand about guide dogs is that they are working animals, not pets. Guide dogs undergo weeks of training. They must follow a special diet, feeding schedule, and daily grooming regimen. Regular exercise must be managed for weight stabilization. Your furry guide and companion will give you additional daily responsibilities.

Here are some questions to ask before considering guide dog training:

  1. Would I use a dog enough to keep its skills up?

  2. Am I willing to rearrange my schedule to care for a dog?

  3. Do I have the patience and energy to be responsible for a guide dog?

The bottom line: Using a guide dog is a commitment and sacrifice.

Unfavorable home environment

The home environment must be evaluated. Do you share a home with family or friends? Although guide dogs for the blind are trained to be around people, they are not guaranteed to fit smoothly into that living space. Also, other animals in the home might not get along with a guide dog. An additional thing to ponder is your lifestyle. Are you an active or sedentary type of person? Guide dogs have undergone training to assist their owners with travel and mobility. If the dog is inactive, they can lose some of that training.

Your physical health 

If you are disabled or have medical/health issues limiting your mobility, then a guide dog might not work. Guide dogs typically move faster, and if there is a physical disability or health concern, this can be difficult. Additionally, if you are providing care for a disabled or medically ill relative in your home, a guide dog might not be a good fit. Your family and their health must be taken into consideration. 

Financial responsibility

Using a guide dog involves additional expenses. Purchasing food, pet supplies, toys, and veterinarian care can influence having a dog. Assistance and/or tax deductions might curb the cost, but consider the financial impact on your budget.

Must be a self-advocate

Although the ADA protects those using guide dogs, people with vision loss must advocate for themselves. Hotels, local small businesses, restaurants, and ride-share services are examples of places where guide dog users have been denied services. You will need to know your legal rights and be willing to stand up for yourself when these situations arise.

A guide dog can be an excellent mobility aid and travel companion. However, it is important to consider all options carefully before committing. Guide dogs are one of many tools that can enhance independence. White canes and technology can also be great mobility aids.

Outlook Enrichment can help you determine the best plan for achieving your goals with vision loss. Though we do not train guide dogs, we can connect you to guide dog schools. We can also teach you about adaptive technology and other techniques to make traveling easier. We can work with you to ensure your decisions work best for you, with or without a guide dog. Contact us today to get started.

How Virtual Audiobook Clubs Create a Community for Visually Impaired Readers

We all know reading books is an inexpensive entertainment, an educational tool, and a time-traveling machine. Grabbing a book and diving into its pages is a pleasurable experience regardless of the day or time. September 6 is National Read a Book Day, a special occasion to read that new bestseller or book you keep putting aside.

Virtual audiobook club starts. 

Reading a good book is enjoyable and helps reduce stress and enhance mental concentration. Having someone to share it with is even more fun. When the pandemic struck last year, Outlook Enrichment developed a virtual audiobook club. Everyone was sheltering in place and practicing social distancing. Yet, people who were blind and visually impaired still needed community and socialization. This monthly club allows one to share a good read and connect with others. It also helps members to read consistently, read books out of their comfort zone, and see different perspectives.

“I value this club because it brings folks together amid the virus and specifically hardships of blind folks.  We pick audiobooks from many types like mysteries, thrillers, and suspense while having fun discussing them,” said Kathy Beers, an audiobook club member. “Audiobooks open a whole new world to the reader. You read at your own pace and on your own time. They are inexpensive to buy, and they belong to you after purchase.  Many audiobooks and podcasts are free.  Many different devices can be used to read audiobooks.  This book club is also a great support for visually impaired folks. I truly enjoy this club.” 

Although the club focuses on audiobooks, people with vision loss can read in various formats. Braille, large print, digital text-to-speech, and even accessible apps are available for reading multiple books. Members can choose the format based on their comfort. Computer-savvy members can help those who aren’t with downloading books. Or they can also call the technology helpline at 531.365.5334 for assistance.

“I enjoy listening to works where the narrator knows the perfect accent or multiple voices read the story. It brings various characters to life. When they are monotone, especially in the non-fiction genre, I’d rather just read the books in braille,” said Rachna Keshwani, another audiobook club member. I look forward to each meeting, discussing all our viewpoints about every novel, which sometimes changes my perspective. Without this group, I wouldn’t even consider psychological thrillers.” 

Connect with more people.

Once members start attending the virtual audiobook club, they will interact and connect with more people. This boosts camaraderie and decreases isolation. Transportation and location are not obstacles, meaning more people can join the discussion.

“I think reading books lets you travel to other places even when physical limitations would otherwise prevent you from doing so. Every time I read a book, I learn something about life and love, and the writer throws whatever else it is,” Heather Pfeifer, an audiobook club member, explains. “I love the opportunity to get together with other intelligent minds and discuss our take on what we read; each perspective is unique. Such a blessing to have meetings that don’t require Uber.” 

Connect with different people.

Traditional physical book clubs have the same faithful members who come regularly. But the virtual audiobook club welcomes new members. New members bring different opinions and perspectives, making for lively discussions.

“Before book club started, I had never listened to a book and had not physically read one since high school. I love how I can listen to audiobooks while cleaning or doing other things around the house,” said Megan Mackie, a club member. The best part about the book club meetings is that often, the books inspire the members to share personal stories and memories. We get to share opinions about the books, but more importantly, we share our lives and experiences.” 

The audiobook club is an excellent resource for visually impaired readers. It offers a place to discuss interesting books, share perspectives, build connections, and make friends. Sign up for Outlook Enrichment’s Art and Culture program to join the discussion. Avid visually impaired readers who want to enhance their technology skills can also contact the adaptive technology department for help.

Preparing for a Successful Semester: Tips for Students with Vision Loss

Preparing can be stressful, whether you’re just starting college or returning for a new semester. In addition to finalizing your course schedule and your living arrangements, students with vision loss usually have added steps to take to prepare for the upcoming semester.

However, making a plan and preparing in advance will give you a college semester with considerably less stress. It will not always be easy, but following the tips below will give you the tools you need to succeed and overcome your challenges.

Learn about your university’s disability services.

These services will vary by university type. Many state universities have a more extensive Student Disability Services program. Small and private universities may only have one coordinator of services for disabled students who also have additional job responsibilities. A small university may not have an onsite staff member to assist with adaptive technology, braille translation, or audiobook coordination.

Disabled students should find this information before applying to a university. Most programs will list the contact information and the types of services they can offer on the university’s website. 

Typical accommodations for blind students include:

Additional accommodations may include:

What is the process? 

  1. Self-identify. Any new student needs to self-identify to the university before classes begin. This typically involves meeting with a Student Disability Services program staff member to discuss your disability and needs. The university will require additional documentation, such as eye exam records and previous testing related to your disability, and may review an IEP plan to determine what accommodations could be provided.

  2. Establish a 504 plan. This is a blueprint for how the school will support a student with a disability and remove learning barriers. You can work with your counselor to create this plan. Given to your instructors, this plan introduces them to you and information relevant to your disability. Be your personal advocate. Educate your instructors on your limitations in the classroom and discuss with them what accommodations you will need. The signed 504 plan form shows that the instructor understands your needs and agrees to provide the in-class accommodations.

  3. Communicate. Communicate regularly with Student Disability Services program staff. Make them aware of any issues encountered in the classroom. Discuss challenges with your instructor, such as not following PowerPoint slides or displaying notes because of unverbalized content. You may need to give them a periodic reminder.

  4. Use office hours. Meet with your instructor during office hours to discuss your challenges regarding following teachings or content. Ask questions about the lecture or for assistance understanding how that chemistry problem looks visually. The instructor will only know if you are having difficulty if you tell them, especially when you might be in a lecture hall with 100 other students.

Here are some things to do before your semester begins.

Track down your books early.

An early book list gives you time to check the availability of books in electronic or audio formats. If books are not currently available in audio formats, it may take some time for a reading service to complete the recording of the books promptly. You can find books in alternative formats from sources such as Bookshare and the National Library Service.

Find classroom locations.

Learning the location of campus buildings and your specific classrooms will allow you to plan your route, locate rooms, and troubleshoot obstacles. You can do this independently, with the help of a friend or family member, or with your orientation and mobility instructor. Most university buildings will be open during the summer because summer classes are still in session.

Build relationships.

Meeting peers in your classes can help you find readers and note-takers by looking around and introducing yourself to those around you. Even with all of our technology, these resources might still be needed. You can find readers through your university’s service organizations looking for volunteer hours. Campus bulletin boards can also be a way to recruit readers.

The Outlook Enrichment team is here to help you begin your new college semester. Feel free to contact us today with any of your questions or concerns.

Honoring Deaf-Blind Awareness Week 2021

What is deaf-blindness?

The U.S. began celebrating Helen Keller Deaf-Blind Awareness Week in 1984. President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation setting aside time to recognize the important contributions of deaf-blind individuals. This year’s Helen Keller Awareness Week begins June 27.

Deaf-blindness overview

A deaf-blind individual has vision and hearing loss. This limits their access to auditory and visual information.

Individuals with deaf-blindness usually fall into one of four categories.

Deaf-blindness is rare and hard to track. Children with dual-sensory loss are usually tracked through the education system. Some individuals may voluntarily identify themselves with a social service or rehabilitation agency. Many older adults who are gradually losing vision and hearing will choose not to enter a system to receive assistance. Others might need help knowing where to go for help.

Typical common causes of deaf-blindness include:

Many people with dual-sensory loss will isolate themselves from others because they believe they can no longer participate in social activities. They may also pull away from activities they love. Others will start retreating inward and withdraw from engaging with family and friends due to the losses.

Signs that might include a change in hearing or vision include:

Rehabilitation training for deaf-blind individuals is similar to training and techniques learned by visually impaired individuals in many ways. However, accommodations are made based on the degree of hearing loss.

Auditory cues are sometimes eliminated, and tactile/vibratory indicators are taught. For example, a deaf-blind individual will not hear a pot of water boiling. They feel the handle to test the vibration to determine if the water is boiling. These minor changes in technique provide deaf-blind individuals confidence and safety.

Significant challenges are encountered when safely traveling and navigating city streets.  A blind individual relies heavily on hearing to identify cues, such as crossing an alley or parking garage. People with vision loss rely on sound to identify traffic patterns and to determine when to cross a street. When you cannot hear the traffic, safe travel can become challenging. Through learning specific orientation and mobility skills, safe travel can be achievable.

Hellen Keller once said, “When one door of happiness closes, another opens.”

Outlook Enrichment can assist you or your family member with dual-sensory loss. Deaf-blind people can and do live fulfilled lives. Contact us for more information.

Efficient Ways to Keep Your Documents Organized

Keeping print documents organized can be challenging for the blind and visually impaired. Having a system in place and sticking to it is the key to developing daily living skills for the visually impaired. There is no single, one-size-fits-all solution that will work for everyone. Here is a system and a few methods that you may find helpful.

Maintaining digital copies of print documents is a critical first step, regardless of your chosen method. This can be accomplished with a traditional scanner or by utilizing apps for blind people on your phone or tablet. Scanned documents should be organized in folders, with each document given its proper name. This process serves two purposes: it creates a backup copy in case of loss or damage to the originals and makes documents easier to find, search, and organize.

Storing digital copies

These digital copies can be stored in online file storage services. Popular options include Dropbox, iCloud Drive, One Drive, and Google Drive. You can explore these options and decide which would be best for you. An important benefit of these services is that your digital backups will be accessible on your phone, tablet, and computer. Outlook Enrichment’s adaptive technology trainers can show you how to use these programs effectively and develop daily living skills for visually impaired individuals.

The next step requires creating a system to organize and store the actual print documents. This may include tax documents, insurance policies, birth certificates, etc. Depending on your level of vision, large print or braille might work best for you.

Labeling and grouping documents

Using manila envelopes for each document can be very useful for large print and braille. Each manila envelope can then be labeled. A permanent marker can then be used to write the document’s name and other relevant info in large letters. Similarly, whether you use a braille labeler or stickers, they can be attached to the outside of the envelope.

The next step is to group documents and store them in an easily accessible way.  Documents can be grouped into financial, medical, tax, and other categories. Each category can then be placed in its own file storage bin or folder. Then, each bin or folder can be labeled with large print or braille. This allows you to find the category you are looking for quickly and subsequently find the document.

Identifying your organizational preference

Depending on your organizational preference, the documents should be organized in a defined manner. This can be done by date, alphabet, or whichever method works best for you. For example, you could separate tax documents by year. Create a section for 2019, 2020, 2021, and so on. File separators and tabs can be used for this purpose. The more granular you are in the organization process, the better the system will work.

Once you have a system in place, maintaining it is important. We all have to become file clerks in some way. It is tempting just to let the documents pile up. However, letting it go for too long will overwhelm and cause disorganization. Consider it a part of the housekeeping. Set aside time on weekends or in the evenings. Once you have a system that works for you, it’s just a matter of maintaining it. This will make your life less stressful, especially when you urgently need information or a document. It is okay to put it off sometimes but try not to let the pile get too high. Lastly, don’t be afraid to make adjustments to fine-tune the process so that it works best for you.

Organizing your print documents is just one part of staying on top of things. From house cleaning to labeling household items, Outlook Enrichment’s virtual and in-person events can help you become more organized while helping you develop living skills for the visually impaired to ensure you are successful in your daily life.