Information

National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

The Library of Congress’ National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) Talking Books program is a free library service available to U.S. residents and citizens living abroad whose low vision, blindness, or physical handicap makes it difficult to read a standard printed page. Local cooperating libraries throughout the United States mail NLS audiobooks, magazines, and audio equipment directly to enrollees at no cost. Braille books and magazines are also available to patrons at no cost. If you or someone you know is interested in receiving Talking Books, please go to http://www.nlstalkingbooks.org/ and complete the on-line form.

Posted on June 25, 2007

Seeing Things Differently

People must train themselves to see things differently after learning that they have macular degeneration. As each new challenge and issue arises, a solution should be sought to answer the need. As an example, in the past, one pair of glasses may have been used for everything - now, one pair of glasses may be helpful to read while a different pair of spectacles may be necessary when writing or using the computer. A special computer may be the answer to searching for information, keeping in touch by e-mail, etc.

Posted on May 31, 2005

Enhancing Contrast

Low vision specialists use a variety of tests to determine the level of contrast sensitivity. The tests are usually viewing a chart with black letters at the top with letters of lighter and lighter shades of gray as one moves down the chart. An estimation of a person’s contrast sensitivity can be determined by how far down the chart he or she can read clearly. Regardless of the severity of contrast sensitivity loss, there are a number of things one can do to enhance contrast.

Use appropriate illumination

  • Brighter or alternative light bulbs
  • Adjust the brightness on the computer monitor
  • Properly directed light — either directly on the object, or slightly away if there’s a glare

Intentionally increase the contrast between objects

  • Use a white coffee cup when drinking coffee
  • Use a dark placemat with white dinner plates
  • Use a white dinner plate when serving peas, string beans, meat, etc.
  • Use a dark dinner plate when serving fish, potatoes, corn, rice, etc.

Wear contrast-enhancing eyewear

  • Tinted lenses worn over prescription eyewear can enhance contrast sensitivity (try several shades to find the best one for you)

Posted on May 31, 2005

Contrast Sensitivity and Macular Degeneration

People diagnosed with macular degeneration have varying symptoms including loss of visual clarity and a reduction in the field of view due to the blind spot in the central portion of their vision. Another common problem is the inability to distinguish objects from the background, typically referred to as a reduction in contrast sensitivity.

A Poor Contrast

To illustrate an example of a poor contrast situation, imagine looking outside on a gray, foggy day. Objects are more difficult to distinguish than on a bright, sunny day. Another example would be putting your computer monitor contrast adjustment to “low.” At this setting, text is much more difficult to read. For those with poor contrast sensitivity, this is the vision they live with on a daily basis.

Posted on May 31, 2005

Health Web Sites Must Be Chosen Carefully

The web has become an increasingly important tool for information. However, one must choose very carefully when searching for material about a condition, a disease, a treatment. Look for health information from a distinguished university, a major medical center or the National Institutes of Health/National Eye Institute or recognized health organizations such as the Academy of Ophthalmology, which are linked to the MVRF web site.

Posted on May 31, 2005