By
Kristine Dwyer, LSW, Staff Writer
Advancements in technology have now allowed
those with low vision the opportunity to “see”
again. The goal of producing high quality video
magnifiers is to help those with low or
diminishing vision to remain independent and
active. They are mostly used for reading, but
can also be used for writing, viewing maps or
even filling a syringe. Video magnifiers are a
step beyond the hand magnifier, which allows
only a few words to be seen at a time vs. whole
sentences, paragraphs or columns. Words or
photos are magnified from two to 50 times their
original size in comparison to the handheld
magnifier that generally offers only 15 to 20
times magnification.
The video magnifier is its own television
system (closed-circuit television – CCTV). The
most common type is intended for use on a
desktop or other work surface. Printed material,
photographs or objects are placed under a camera
and the magnified image is displayed onto a
television screen or computer monitor. The user
can then magnify and focus the image until it is
large enough to be clearly seen. The entire unit
can be controlled with a single button and can
be customized to meet each person’s needs. Color
and black and white viewers are both available;
however, more specific information is received
from the color viewer. An orange fruit,
for example, can be clearly identified in color,
yet in black and white it looks like a ball.
Other vision enhancing products that are
available are computer magnification software,
hand-held pocket electronic magnifiers, and
other products for accessible scanning and
reading.
Magnifying machines may be the best kept
secret for improving low vision. They have been
on the market for over 20 years, yet are not
widely sought after. One initial deterrent may
be the price, but the benefits can far outweigh
the cost. A new machine may cost from $1000 to
$3000, but resale options are very positive. The
price depends on the quality of the image,
flexibility of the magnification, size of the
screen, ease of use and extra features. In some
states, county programs will contribute payment
toward a video magnifier for clients, especially
if it will help them remain independent at home.
Payment support may also be attained through
state agencies such as the State Services for
the Blind, personal savings, bank loans, Lions
Clubs or financial gifts from family
and relatives.
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