An Award-Winning Low Vision Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can be defined as technology created and designed for people with disabilities to facilitate them in performing functions such as accessing information technology (IT).

Though there are various types of assistive technologies, the few common types are:

• Mobility aids: devices or tools that help the disabled with mobility e.g. wheelchairs, walkers, walking canes, crutches, orthotic devices, etc.
• Hearing aids: electronic devices that aid people with hearing loss or impairment through the use of an amplifier that increases the strength of the digital signal.
• Low vision aids: Designed for people with visual impairment or low vision caused by an eye condition or eye injury. These devices use a person’s leftover vision and enhance visual acuity helping them see clearly.
• Cognitive aids: categorized as computer or electrical assistive devices that help people with memory, thinking, attention, or other challenges in their comprehension skills.

Assistive technology devices for the visually impaired are specifically designed to help counter or overcome visual challenges caused by an eye injury or disease. These electronic devices use technology to amplify or improve an individual’s functioning and independence.

• Electronic magnifiers
• Responsive devices such as a talking thermostat
• Braille displays
• Wearable low vision aids like IrisVision
• Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
• Smartphones with large tactile buttons

The World Health Organization reports that globally, more than 1 billion people need 1 or more assistive products. The application of these assistive technology devices is unique based on the specific features and functionalities of the devices. Each disability requires different assistive technologies. They are modified according to the specific needs or problems faced by the user such as difficulty speaking, seeing, writing, remembering, hearing, walking, etc.