Technology for the Visually Impaired

When someone is born or develops a visual impairment, it is comforting to know that there are adaptive technological items that can be used to assist these visually impaired people. As there are many different types and severity's of visual impairment, there are many different types of technological devices that can be used to help them live more "normal" lives. Some adaptive technology for the visually impaired is virtually undetected by others while some are more noticeable to the eyes of those around them.

History

• Some of the first technological devices for the visually impaired were created in the 1800's. One of the most popular and most commonly recognizable technological devices for the visually impaired is the Braille writing methods. Originally, a system created by Charles Barbier was used to help Napoleon's soldiers communicate without light or sound but when Louis Braille took a visit to the National Institute for the Blind in 1821, he defined many problems with system; his chief complaint being that one person could not read a single letter without moving his hand.

Types

• Not all technology for the visually impaired assist in reading and writing. Some technology is designed to help with mobility, games, and other tasks that may be hard to do otherwise. Mobility technology help visually impaired people to have the freedom to go places without having to worry about tripping, running into walls, or having difficulty. There is new technology that assists the visually impaired in being able to play games, and participate in activities that may otherwise be difficult for them to participate in due to size, colors, or any other restrictions that may cause difficulty.

Products

• There are many different products available to assist the visually impaired in daily activities. Products vary greatly in prices from $25 to $100,000 as of 2010. These products may include but are not limited to canes, guide dogs, Braille, specialized Braille lamination printers, and software that can print larger print and recognize voice commands. Though all of these products and technologies seem very simple, they can impact a visually impaired person's life very dramatically.

Features and Adaptations

• Some adaptive technology for the visually impaired has many features that enable quicker or easier use by the visually impaired. Some technology can be specially adapted to assist to the special needs of the visually impaired without causing them to feel out of place, uncomfortable, or different. The special features and adaptations that these adaptive technologies can include may also increase the amount of assistance the visually impaired receives from that specific product or technology.

Potential

• There is untapped potential that is yet to be discovered in the world of adaptations and adaptive technology for the visually impaired. These technological devices and the research being done to create more adaptive technology have the potential to change the way the visually impaired are looked at by society. These evolving technologies have the potential to eventually allow the visually impaired to live independent lives no matter the severity of the visual disability he/she has.