Tips for the visually impaired

Lighting: Increase the amount of lighting directly over the task that you are doing. LED lights, natural light and natural daylight bulbs are recommended. Do not use fluorescent lights as they cause a glare.

Writing: Use a dark, bold pointed marker or a bold tip gel pen and print.

Reading: The library has a wide variety of large print books and books on tape. Go visit with them about your interests.

Brushing teeth: Use colored or striped toothpaste as these are easier to see on your toothbrush. Or, you can just squirt the toothpaste into your mouth and brush.

Pouring liquids in a cup: Pour dark colored beverages in a white cup. This makes it easier to see how full the cup is.

Money identification: Feel the edges of your coins. The dime and quarter have a rough or serrated edge and the penny and the nickel have a smooth edge. For paper money, look at the back of the bill. You will notice that the number in the bottom right corner is the largest on the bill.

Matching socks: Pin socks together before placing them in the laundry. Use brass or stainless steel safety pins so they won’t rust.

Reading the numbers on your credit card: Place a piece of paper over your credit card and then take a pencil and color over the raised numbers of the card. Be sure to also color over the expiration date. Keep this in a safe place.

Marking items in your cupboards: While you are unpacking your groceries, label them with extra wide masking tape and use a black marker to write in large letters what the item is.

Using a cell phone: Many cell phones today are voice activated and can be used by voice commands. Have family members help you program yours to use this feature.

Marking dials on the stove: Use puff paint to mark key points on the dial. Liquid white out can be used to mark black or dark-colored stove dials.

Don’t move things. Always keep things in the same place. Do not move furniture without informing the visually impaired person. Do not leave things where they can be bumped into or tripped over.

Telephones: There are a wide variety of phones available for the visually impaired. Try a phone with the large keypad. You can also pre-program numbers for people you call frequently.

Calling all caregivers

Caregiver Support Group meets the second Tuesday (February 8) of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Call Mary at (320) 762-3047 for more information.

Tags: visually impaired, life, senior, tips, krueger