The following short series of audio clips have been co-created with people with lived experience of vision impairment. They have been created with the intention of sharing information about specific technologies used by people with vision impairment, how these are being used and what has helped people to get started with technologies.
Introduction to DiTSoW:
An introduction to the DiTSoW and DiTSoW II projects and the clips we have produced with people with vision impairment
Help getting started:
How to get started with technology and places that may provide help and support locally.
Ipad/Tablet:
This is the brand name for a small and simplified computer about the size of a book, that enables you to communicate with the world and find out information from the internet.
Smart Speakers:
These are voice activated devices that connect through WiFi to multiple other devices in the home.
Metaglasses:
Metaglasses are a brand name for Smart Glasses. They are wearable as glasses which connect hands free to your phone enabling you to use phone features and navigate your environment through voice commands and audio description.
JAWS and Be My Eyes:
These are specifically designed for use by people with vision impairment and can help with navigation of phones and computers and in the real world.
Seeing AI:
This is a bespoke app that can help navigate the virtual and real world through voice command and audio information.
The Ruby:
A Ruby is a magnifying technology which aids people with partial sight to read written materials.
The views expressed in these audio clips are those of the older people we spoke with and not necessarily those of the research team, NIHR, or the Department of Health and Social Care. We recommend that anyone considering using or purchasing technology should seek independent personalised advice. A good starting point for this advice are Sensory Support Teams within local councils as well as national and local sight loss charities.