Volume 16, No. 2, Spring 2008	Previous Issues Subscribe to AT Messenger Download PDF Viewer
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Coast to Coast: Readers Share Tips to Make Home Life Easier

When you have vision loss, or live with someone who does, there are adjustments for everyone involved. Following are ideas shared by Sharing Solutions readers regarding changes they made to feel more secure and comfortable in their homes.

Getting—And Staying—Organized

The key is getting rid of clutter. And it’s often easier said than done. If you need help, ask a family member or friend. Start by going through your closets, cabinets and drawers to remove items you no longer use or need. Once that’s done, it’s a lot easier to organize what you have. And whatever system you choose, keep it simple so you can find an item when you need it—“a place for everything, and everything in its place.” Make sure to share your plan with family members, housekeepers or house guests.

Here are some things you suggested:

• Designate pantry and refrigerator shelves for specific items by using raised markings or large-print labels
• Differentiate canned goods by using magnetic reusable labels or rubber bands
  
• Find items more easily by storing them on rotating tiered shelving
  
• Separate socks, jewelry or paperwork in plastic sealable bags or containers

Using All Your Senses

Don’t forget to use your other senses to identify items. For example, jewelry often can be differentiated by feel—shape, stones (smooth vs. faceted), length, etc. Use tactile raised bumps or dots to mark appliance settings. And take advantage of talking products.

Other ideas include:

• Place wind chimes or a radio on your patio/porch to keep you oriented outside
• Turn prescription bottles upside down after you’ve taken your daily dose
  

Color and Contrast

Many people improve visibility by enhancing color and/or contrast. For example, dining is more comfortable when place settings contrast with tablecloths. And you’re less likely to knock over colored glasses than clear ones.

Here are some additional tips:

• Outline the plug area of switch plates with a bold marker
• Set off furniture against a contrasting carpet or wall, or make it stand out with contrasting pillows
• Highlight doors by painting frames to contrast with the wall
• Distinguish your keys with the help of different colored nail polish or key covers

Safety

Safety is a top priority for everyone. We received a great deal of feedback regarding throw rugs—some people feel they’re a hazard and have discarded them; others find them helpful as landmarks and secure them with tape. Stairways are another hot spot. Readers mark the edges of the top and bottom steps, install handrails and ensure sufficient lighting. One woman feels a lot safer after alternating two different contrasting carpets on her stairway steps. For additional safety tips, order our free “Living Better at Home” kit, by calling 212-821-9200 ext. 551 or emailing bbendl@lighthouse.org.

Popular Products

Readers shared a variety of adaptive products and electronic devices that they find useful:

• Large-print calendar
• CCTV to magnify reading material
• Large-button telephone
• Computer with adaptive software
• Talking caller ID and answering machine
• Voice-activated cell phone
• Large-screen TV
• Talking appliances

This article was reprinted with permission from Lighthouse International (www.lighthouse.org) and appeared in the Spring 2007 issue of their Sharing Solutions newsletter. The contents of this article are based on feedback from Sharing Solutions readers from around the country. The Spring 2007 issue is available in its entirety at http://www.lighthouse.org/aboutus/newsletters/. You may also receive the free newsletter on a regular basis by emailing sharingsolutions@lighthouse.org. The newsletter is available in multiple formats—large print, Braille, audiocassette, and online.

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