Top 7 Low Vision Aids

Low vision affects many people, especially those over 65, limiting their ability to read, drive, and see objects in detail. As the Baby Boomer generation ages, the number of individuals with low vision is projected to increase significantly, necessitating effective solutions. Our top 7 low vision aids leverage advanced technology to enhance independence, offering user-friendly devices that seamlessly integrate into daily routines and provide crucial assistance.

Best Overall Choice:

1) OrCam MyEye PRO - AI Smart Reading Device for the Blind and Visually Impaired View Product

The Top 7:

	7) Talking Label Wand for Labeling Everyday Items View Product
	6) Chester Creek White Large Print Keyboard From Ablenet View Product
	5) OrCam Read - Portable Text Reader Assistive Technology View Product
	4) One Button Extra Large Talking Watch View Product
	3) Talking Oral Medical Thermometer for Low Vision by LS&S View Product
	2) WeWALK Smart Cane for the Blind with GPS View Product
	1) OrCam MyEye PRO - AI Smart Reading Device for the Blind and Visually Impaired View Product

Features to Consider

Low vision aids vary widely, from magnifying devices to advanced electronic tools that utilize voice and hearing to assist with daily activities. Consider which type of aid best suits your specific needs.

• Ease of Use: Select a user-friendly device that integrates seamlessly into your daily routine. Simplicity in operation can significantly impact the user experience, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy.
• Functionality and Features: Evaluate the specific features each device offers. Some aids are designed for reading text, while others provide comprehensive assistance, including obstacle detection and GPS navigation. Choose a device that addresses your most critical needs.
• Compatibility and Connectivity: Ensure the low vision aid is compatible with your existing devices and can connect easily. Some aids require connectivity with smartphones or other gadgets for full functionality.
• Portability: Consider how portable the device is, especially if you need to use it on the go. Lightweight, compact designs are beneficial for maintaining independence and convenience.
• Battery Life: Battery life is crucial for devices used throughout the day. Look for aids that offer long-lasting battery performance to avoid frequent recharging.
• Cost and Insurance: Assess the cost of the device and whether it fits within your budget. Check if the device qualifies for insurance coverage or Medicare reimbursement, especially if it is prescribed by a doctor and meets specific criteria for durable medical equipment.

What are low vision aids?

Low vision aids help people with low vision perform everyday tasks. They can range from products that use high magnification to assist with reading to talking lifestyle tools that use hearing and voice to help accomplish daily activities.

Why have low vision aids?

Low vision aids allow people to complete daily life activities, fostering independence and creating a higher quality of life for those with low vision.

How can Medicare be billed for low vision aids?

Typically, Medicare will pay for a low vision exam but will not reimburse for low vision devices aimed at helping maximize existing vision. However, occupational therapy to learn how to accomplish daily life activities is covered, and low vision auditory aids that contribute to accomplishing those activities could be covered as durable medical equipment if prescribed by a doctor and the following criteria are met:

• Durable (withstands repeated use)
• Used for medical reasons
• Not useful by someone who isn’t ill, injured, or impaired 
• Used in the home
• Has an expected service life of at least 3 years

The Top 7

#7 Talking Label Wand

Talking Label Wand for Labeling Everyday Items View Product

Number 7 on the list is the Talking Label Wand by LS&S Products. Knowing where things are located is critical to accomplishing daily tasks independently. From choosing what to wear to locating ingredients for dinner, this wand can help you confidently navigate the day. 

Using voice technology, the wand records talking labels to assist with locating and identifying objects. First, the message is recorded on the wand, noting what an object is. Then, a self-adhesive tactile label is placed on that object, and when the wand touches the object, it will replay the identifying message. You can also use this device to record notes and memos to yourself or messages for others

The talking label wand, which has 2 GB of built-in storage, comes with 232 labels of varying sizes. The color-coded labels can be recorded with new information. The wand has five volume settings and a headphone jack. It can be hung from a string, chain, or lanyard to keep it handy.

This wand ships with headphones and requires two AAA batteries (not included). Additional tactile sticky labels can be ordered.

Features and Benefits

• Reusable labels
• Multiple functions to label objects, record reminders, or record messages for others
• Easy to use
• Ample memory storage
• 5 volume settings

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Very helpful to find things in closets, on shelves, and in cupboards
• Comes with headphones
• Voice is clear and easy to understand
• Color-coded labels add to organization
• Countless ways to use this in the kitchen

Cons

• Does not include batteries
• Some users can have trouble manipulating the sticky labels

#6 Chester Creek White Large Print Keyboard

Chester Creek White Large Print Keyboard From Ablenet View Product

The Chester Creek White Large Print Keyboard from Ablenet, our number 6 pick, is a versatile and user-friendly low-vision aid designed to assist individuals with visual impairments or motor disabilities. Featuring large-print keys, the VisionBoard2 makes typing easier and more accessible for patients of all ages, from children learning to type to elderly individuals struggling with smaller keys on standard keyboards. The high-contrast white and black design enhances visibility, reducing eye strain and increasing typing accuracy. This keyboard is compatible with Windows computers and includes two USB 2.0 ports for quick and easy connectivity.

Features and Benefits

• The white and black keyboard layout creates a stark contrast
• The oversized keys benefit users with visual impairments or motor disabilities
• Compatible with Windows computers and features two USB 2.0 ports 
• Ideal for use in schools, clinics, and homes

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Large print keys and high-contrast design make typing easier for individuals with visual and motor impairments
• Easily connects to Windows computers via USB, providing flexibility for various users
• Suitable for a wide range of ages and settings, including educational and healthcare environments
• Sturdy construction ensures long-lasting use, even in high-traffic areas

Cons

• Only available in high-contrast black and white
• Primarily designed for Windows computers, limiting use with other operating systems
• Larger key size may require more desk space
• Lack of backlighting may reduce visibility in low-light conditions

#5 OrCam Read - Portable Text Reader Assistive Technology

OrCam Read - Portable Text Reader Assistive Technology View Product

Our number 5 choice, the OrCam Read Portable Text Reader Assistive Technology is a groundbreaking device designed to provide seamless reading assistance to individuals with visual impairments. Voted the best invention of 2021 by Time Magazine, this handheld reader combines voice command, laser capture settings, and adjustable playback speeds for a personalized reading experience. The 13-megapixel camera and smart reading capabilities allow it to read both printed and digital text effortlessly, making it ideal for any situation, whether you’re reading late at night or checking emails on the go. Its ergonomic design and easy-to-use buttons ensure that users can control all functions without needing an internet connection. At the same time, Bluetooth compatibility allows for the use of wireless headphones.

 Features and Benefits

• Visual sensor and two laser capture settings allow for effortless text reading
• Enables hands-free operation and quick reading functions through voice commands
• Four ergonomic buttons for easy control of all functions, and a bright LED
• Adjustable playback speeds and smart reading capabilities provide customized reading experience

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Combines AI and laser capture for precise and reliable reading assistance.
• Lightweight and handheld, making it easy to carry and use anywhere.
• All operations are processed within the device, ensuring usability in any location without an Internet connection.
• Allows connection with wireless headphones for a more convenient reading experience.

Cons

• Some users may find learning all the advanced features challenging
• Extensive use may require frequent recharging, especially with the LED light and Bluetooth
• In noisy environments, voice commands might be less effective

#4 One Button Extra Large Talking Watch

One Button Extra Large Talking Watch View Product

The One Button Extra Large Talking Watch by LSS is our number 4 choice for low-vision aids, offering simplicity and functionality for users with visual impairments. This watch features an extra-large face and a single button that announces the time in a clear voice, making it easy for those struggling with traditional watch displays. By focusing solely on time-telling and eliminating other functions like alarms, dates, or chimes, this watch ensures that users can quickly and efficiently access the information they need. The sleek design includes a silver flex band and casing, combining practicality with a touch of elegance.

Features and Benefits

• The large display is ideal for low-vision users
• Provides a clear voice announcement of the time with just one button press
• Excludes alarms, dates, or chimes, focusing on quick and effective time-telling
• Features a silver flex band and casing

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Simple one-button operation makes it highly accessible for visually impaired users
• Provides an audible time announcement
• The extra-large face enhances visibility, reducing strain for low-vision users
• The silver flex band and casing are stylish and modern

Cons

• Lacks additional features like alarms or date displays, which some users might miss
• The absence of multiple functions makes the watch's use less flexible
• Regular use of the voice feature may require frequent battery changes

#3 Talking Oral Medical Thermometer for Low Vision by LS&S

Talking Oral Medical Thermometer for Low Vision by LS&S View Product

This bilingual Talking Oral Medical Thermometer for Low Vision by LSS is number 3 on the list because it empowers you to be responsible for your own day-to-day well-being, which is a huge part of independent living. The ability to take your own temperature gives you access to accurate information. It allows you to determine for yourself if a medical situation needs to be addressed.

Placed under the tongue like a standard thermometer, it delivers a spoken temperature reading in either English or Spanish. It also displays the temperature reading in large text on the screen and the voice feature can be turned off if you are able to read the screen. This versatile talking thermometer is lightweight and accurate and has a reading ready in 8 seconds. It is easy to operate and is as accurate as a standard thermometer.

Features and Benefits

• Accurate and easy to use
• Bilingual readings in English or Spanish
• Large text or audible reading
• Fast results

Pros

• Helps people who are isolated monitor for possible fever
• Easy to understand audio results
• Don’t have to wait long for temperature reading
• Simple to use

Cons

• The batteries didn’t last as long as expected
• Might be a challenge to disengage the voice feature

#2 WeWALK Smart Cane for the Blind with GPS

WeWALK Smart Cane for the Blind with GPS View Product

The WeWALK Smart Cane for the Blind with GPS is our number 2 choice, offering cutting-edge technology to enhance freedom and independence for individuals with limited or impaired vision. This innovative device attaches to Ambutech canes and provides essential features such as obstacle detection with vibration alerts and GPS navigation for added security. Its ergonomic design ensures a natural feel in the hand, while the customizable WeWALK app offers numerous smart functionalities, including location finding, public transport status, and voice alerts for misplaced canes. With a battery life of up to 20 hours, this smart cane is designed for all-day use, keeping users safe and informed.

Features and Benefits

• Vibration alerts warn users of low-hanging obstacles in their path
• The integrated GPS feature provides real-time navigation and location tracking
• The WeWALK app on iOS or Android enables additional features such as public transport updates, nearby location discovery, and voice assistant integration
• The device attaches easily to Ambutech canes and features a comfortable grip

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Vibration alerts effectively notify users of obstacles, significantly improving safety
• The app's voice control and touchpad functionalities offer easy access to various features without needing to handle the phone
• Up to 20 hours of battery life ensures the device lasts throughout the day
• GPS navigation and other smart features help users navigate their surroundings independently

Cons

• Some users may find it challenging to master all the advanced features initially
• Reliance on the app and Bluetooth connection means it may not function optimally without a smartphone

#1 OrCam MyEye PRO

OrCam MyEye PRO - AI Smart Reading Device for the Blind and Visually Impaired View Product

The OrCam MyEye PRO is our top pick for the best assistive technology device for the blind and visually impaired, praised by Time Magazine as one of the best inventions for users with visual impairments. This revolutionary device offers a powerful solution for those living with vision impairments, enabling a new level of independence with a simple button press or voice command. The OrCam can read any readable text aloud on demand and recognize barcodes, money, colors, and even people's faces. Its small size and ability to attach to any pair of glasses make it perfect for use anywhere, and it operates without needing an internet connection.

Features and Benefits

• Reads books, magazines, labels, and digital screens aloud with a simple button press or voice command
• Identifies barcodes, money, colors, and faces, providing assistance in various everyday situations
• Small size and ability to attach to any type or frame of glasses 
• Operates offline after initial setup

Customer Feedback

Pros

• Empowers users with vision impairments to navigate their surroundings independently
• A simple button press or voice command activation makes it accessible for all users
• Regular software updates improve functionality and performance at no additional cost
• Comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, providing peace of mind for long-term use

Cons

• Some users may need time to familiarize themselves with all the features and functionalities
• Requires attachment to a pair of glasses, which may not be suitable for users who do not wear glasses

Final Thoughts

Independence is consistently tied to quality of life, and deteriorating eyesight can call into question how much someone with low vision can do independently. These products are chosen as our top picks because, although they assist in accomplishing different everyday activities, they are all easy to use, fit well with daily routines, and foster independence. Among these, the OrCam MyEye PRO stands out as a cutting-edge device that significantly enhances the quality of life for individuals with visual impairments, providing a blend of advanced technology, ease of use, and comprehensive assistance. For more information from our healthcare experts, please visit us at Caregiver University!