12-23-2009 –
I am more grateful than ever this Christmas season and it is not Christmas day. Funny for years how I believed that somehow, someday, things would be better on their own and all along all I needed to do was sit back and realize how good I have it.
Living with legal blindness owned me for years, but now (the only time I have) I am deeply grateful. I took charge of my life and now am happy, joyous, and free.
I wish for all a happy and successful Holiday Season. This could be the time to take complete control, 100% responsibility for our lives and be grateful for our blessings.
Making a decision to focus on what I can do, and not what I cannot do or did not have made a huge difference in my life.
Yes, I can read with a video magnifier, better lighting, pocket magnifier, a computer that reads to me and displays very large print, a camera that takes a picture of my magazines – actually any printed materials - and reads them back to me in a human sounding voice, and best of all many low tech items that enable me to live a much higher quality of life.
I am grateful for all the wonderful people in my life, for my clear mind’s eye, and the inspiration I get on a daily basis to help others with their struggles.
We are all blessed. I look forward to hearing from you and seeing you in the store.
Charlie Collins
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Vision Dynamics, LLC of Cheshire, CT strengthens ties with HumanWare, a Canadian based international provider of Low Vision/Blindness products
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EDITORIAL CONTACT:
Jack Sheehan
Director of Marketing
Vision Dynamics
203-271-1944
jack@visiondynamics.com
Vision Dynamics expands its long term association with HumanWare in adding their complete Low Vision Line, highlighting the new Intel Reader.
Cheshire, CT – December 17, 2009.
Charlie Collins, founder and owner, of Vision Dynamics is happy to extend their twelve year association with HumanWare. “We have always offered the HumanWare line of Blindness Aids and as we both continue to grow, we are very comfortable in knowing that they are constantly seeking to add new products.” said Charlie.
HumanWare is a Canadian based company with offices in Australia/New Zealand, Europe/UK, and the United States. On the HumanWare web site it states.”HumanWare's products are having a profoundly positive impact on the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired. These are the tools that empower them to live independently and compete effectively in a sighted world.”
Vinnie Zappa, V/P of Low Vision Sales for HumanWare, stated “HumanWare products are designed to last, to grow (and in many cases, to go) with the user. Giving them the independence to compete effectively with peers, to feel connected – to be a vital part of the global information age in which we live”. Charlie adds “This statement fits right in with our mission to inspire and empower people with low vision, blindness, and learning difficulties with the hope, desire and ability to lead happy and independent lives.”
HumanWare’s Low vision aids include the brand new SmartView Synergy video magnifier (CCTV), myReader2 (auto reader) and the SmartView Graduate (close-up/distance camera). Humanware has a full line of hand held portable magnifiers including the SmartView Nano, Pocket, Versa and Versa+. Video readers offered include the new Intel Reader. There is a soon to be released Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones. This will bring your BlackBerry to life using state of the art text to speech (TTS) technology with adjustable volume and speech rate.
“This is the kind of awareness and advanced thinking we are accustomed to from HumanWare.” said Charlie. “They are cutting edge providers in our industry. That is why we have been able to benefit from this partnership for so long.”
EDITORIAL CONTACT:
Jack Sheehan
Director of Marketing
Vision Dynamics
203-271-1944
jack@visiondynamics.com
Vision Dynamics expands its long term association with HumanWare in adding their complete Low Vision Line, highlighting the new Intel Reader.
Cheshire, CT – December 17, 2009.
Charlie Collins, founder and owner, of Vision Dynamics is happy to extend their twelve year association with HumanWare. “We have always offered the HumanWare line of Blindness Aids and as we both continue to grow, we are very comfortable in knowing that they are constantly seeking to add new products.” said Charlie.
HumanWare is a Canadian based company with offices in Australia/New Zealand, Europe/UK, and the United States. On the HumanWare web site it states.”HumanWare's products are having a profoundly positive impact on the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired. These are the tools that empower them to live independently and compete effectively in a sighted world.”
Vinnie Zappa, V/P of Low Vision Sales for HumanWare, stated “HumanWare products are designed to last, to grow (and in many cases, to go) with the user. Giving them the independence to compete effectively with peers, to feel connected – to be a vital part of the global information age in which we live”. Charlie adds “This statement fits right in with our mission to inspire and empower people with low vision, blindness, and learning difficulties with the hope, desire and ability to lead happy and independent lives.”
HumanWare’s Low vision aids include the brand new SmartView Synergy video magnifier (CCTV), myReader2 (auto reader) and the SmartView Graduate (close-up/distance camera). Humanware has a full line of hand held portable magnifiers including the SmartView Nano, Pocket, Versa and Versa+. Video readers offered include the new Intel Reader. There is a soon to be released Orator for BlackBerry Smartphones. This will bring your BlackBerry to life using state of the art text to speech (TTS) technology with adjustable volume and speech rate.
“This is the kind of awareness and advanced thinking we are accustomed to from HumanWare.” said Charlie. “They are cutting edge providers in our industry. That is why we have been able to benefit from this partnership for so long.”
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Vision Testing
Charlie Collins:
As one who is visually impaired I am very familiar with struggling with my initial thoughts. Are you having doubts or questions about your vision? Can’t do more of the things you used to handle easily? Not sure what, if anything, you can do? I remember having all these thoughts when I was diagnosed with Juvenile Macular Degeneration. If you are struggling and looking for some answers try these everyday living questions.
Do you find it difficult for you to watch sports or the news, your favorite “soaps” on TV?
Can you see the regular print in newspapers, magazines or books?
Can you see the large print headlines in the newspaper?
Are you having difficulty when you use your computer, play cards, sew, or doing other favorite things?
Are you having difficulty reading labels on medicine bottles or prices at the supermarket?
Are you having difficulty reading your own handwriting or your personal mail?
Are you sometimes even having difficulty recognizing the faces of family or friends?
Does seeing in dim or bright lights seem to be getting more difficult?
If you answered yes to three of these questions and have not had an eye exam recently I advise
you to do so as soon as possible. Your problems may not be serious and you may only need a minor adjustment to your normal vision.
If you answered yes to more than three of these questions there is a definite need for a vision examination conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
You are not alone in your doubts, perhaps even fears, about these questions. I personally know there are many ways to solve whatever problems you may be experiencing. My staff and I can help with advice or with the vision aids we deal with every day. Please call me or send me an e-mail today. I have been where you are so I know the way out.
As one who is visually impaired I am very familiar with struggling with my initial thoughts. Are you having doubts or questions about your vision? Can’t do more of the things you used to handle easily? Not sure what, if anything, you can do? I remember having all these thoughts when I was diagnosed with Juvenile Macular Degeneration. If you are struggling and looking for some answers try these everyday living questions.
Do you find it difficult for you to watch sports or the news, your favorite “soaps” on TV?
Can you see the regular print in newspapers, magazines or books?
Can you see the large print headlines in the newspaper?
Are you having difficulty when you use your computer, play cards, sew, or doing other favorite things?
Are you having difficulty reading labels on medicine bottles or prices at the supermarket?
Are you having difficulty reading your own handwriting or your personal mail?
Are you sometimes even having difficulty recognizing the faces of family or friends?
Does seeing in dim or bright lights seem to be getting more difficult?
If you answered yes to three of these questions and have not had an eye exam recently I advise
you to do so as soon as possible. Your problems may not be serious and you may only need a minor adjustment to your normal vision.
If you answered yes to more than three of these questions there is a definite need for a vision examination conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
You are not alone in your doubts, perhaps even fears, about these questions. I personally know there are many ways to solve whatever problems you may be experiencing. My staff and I can help with advice or with the vision aids we deal with every day. Please call me or send me an e-mail today. I have been where you are so I know the way out.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
You can help me help the vision impaired needy.
Charlie Collins:
I am a sufferer of Juvenile Macular Degeneration. I know what it is like to face life with the fear and anxiety that loss of vision brings to its victims. I also remember what happened when I realized there was help for my problem. Now I want to show people who are really hurting in this recession how they can still get help.
Using my large print, talking computer, I read a letter last week from an agency representing our local nonprofit agencies.
“With the nation’s unemployment rate over 10%, more and more middle-class families find themselves seeking services from nonprofit providers. The very people who were donating to nonprofit providers as recently as eighteen months ago are now applying for services.” states a recent letter from The Connecticut Nonprofit Human Services Cabinet (CNHSC) This agency represents well over 800 nonprofit providers across Connecticut that contract with the state to provide health and human services on its behalf
The letter added “The economic bubble has burst for our state. Unfortunately, there was no bubble to burst for nonprofit providers; we’ve been “doing more with less” for so long that many cannot remember what it is like to not struggle to balance a budget. The fiscal hardships that the state went through in 2009 are what nonprofit providers have been going through for years.”
This letter made the severity of the problems facing nonprofits very clear. I made up my mind right then that I was going to do something to help. You may be able to help too. Our company, Vision Dynamics in Cheshire, is well known to these agencies. Our reputation is one of always being ready, able and even anxious to help. We believe there are many vision aids not being used by the original purchasers for many reasons. We upgrade people’s aids many times and they usually keep their original product. We will be contacting those folks to offer to act as a drop off station for vision aids that are no longer being used. We have arranged to deliver these items to the non-profits that we and CNHSC support and make sure they get to the people that need them. I know we can make a difference in someone’s life that might not happen without this help.
If you or a loved one has one of these in your house, a magnifier or other item that is no longer being used because a stronger one was needed, someone can still use that original! There are other examples, readers, Braille products and many others. Our staff, most visually impaired themselves, is expert at placing the right tool in the right hands. You can drop off any vision aid product at Vision Dynamics, 470 West Main Street in Cheshire, CT. Items dropped off before December 15th may make a Merry Christmas gift for a needy person!
If you or a loved one needs vision aid advice but are unsure about the help available to you, please contact us, we may be able to put you in touch with an agency that can help you.
I am a sufferer of Juvenile Macular Degeneration. I know what it is like to face life with the fear and anxiety that loss of vision brings to its victims. I also remember what happened when I realized there was help for my problem. Now I want to show people who are really hurting in this recession how they can still get help.
Using my large print, talking computer, I read a letter last week from an agency representing our local nonprofit agencies.
“With the nation’s unemployment rate over 10%, more and more middle-class families find themselves seeking services from nonprofit providers. The very people who were donating to nonprofit providers as recently as eighteen months ago are now applying for services.” states a recent letter from The Connecticut Nonprofit Human Services Cabinet (CNHSC) This agency represents well over 800 nonprofit providers across Connecticut that contract with the state to provide health and human services on its behalf
The letter added “The economic bubble has burst for our state. Unfortunately, there was no bubble to burst for nonprofit providers; we’ve been “doing more with less” for so long that many cannot remember what it is like to not struggle to balance a budget. The fiscal hardships that the state went through in 2009 are what nonprofit providers have been going through for years.”
This letter made the severity of the problems facing nonprofits very clear. I made up my mind right then that I was going to do something to help. You may be able to help too. Our company, Vision Dynamics in Cheshire, is well known to these agencies. Our reputation is one of always being ready, able and even anxious to help. We believe there are many vision aids not being used by the original purchasers for many reasons. We upgrade people’s aids many times and they usually keep their original product. We will be contacting those folks to offer to act as a drop off station for vision aids that are no longer being used. We have arranged to deliver these items to the non-profits that we and CNHSC support and make sure they get to the people that need them. I know we can make a difference in someone’s life that might not happen without this help.
If you or a loved one has one of these in your house, a magnifier or other item that is no longer being used because a stronger one was needed, someone can still use that original! There are other examples, readers, Braille products and many others. Our staff, most visually impaired themselves, is expert at placing the right tool in the right hands. You can drop off any vision aid product at Vision Dynamics, 470 West Main Street in Cheshire, CT. Items dropped off before December 15th may make a Merry Christmas gift for a needy person!
If you or a loved one needs vision aid advice but are unsure about the help available to you, please contact us, we may be able to put you in touch with an agency that can help you.
Friday, November 27, 2009
GM Teams With National Federation for the Blind to Develop Safe Sound Alert For Electric Vehicles
Electric cars are silent-running which for many people is a very good thing. It can potentially lead to some risk to the visually-impaired and other pedestrians however as some studies show.
A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published in September reveled bicyclists and pedestrians are struck at a significantly higher rate by hybrid as opposed to conventional cars.
GM has created a special pedestrian alert signal for the Chevy Volt. ”It is an active system,” says Chief engineer Andrew Farah, meaning the driver must activate it. Passive systems produce a sound at all times. The Volt pedestrian alert sound is a light volume horn-like sound similar to the chirp of some cars keyless entry indicators. ”It has to be automotive,” says Farah referring to the quality of the tone.
The fist generation Chevy Volt will not be equipped with a passive alert system. Competitor Nissan has reportedly developed a system for its upcoming LEAF EV which sounds like a floating car from the Bladerunner movie. GM is looking at the possibility of passive alert for future Volt generations. Other electric automakers such as Tesla remain uncertain.
Today GM has announced that they formed a partnership with the National Federation for the Blind to identify what will be a “safe level of sound” for alerting visually impaired and other pedestrians to the approach of a silent running EV.
Meetings have begun earlier this year and are also aimed at protecting runners, cyclists, and children.
“We have significant background in the area of pedestrian alerts dating to our work on our first electric car, the EV1,” Farah said, “The most important thing is to listen to the people who will interact with these vehicles in everyday life.”
Deborah Kent Stein, who chairs the NFB’s Committee on Automobile and Pedestrian Safety, said, “A recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) demonstrated that the silent operation of hybrid vehicles is an issue for all pedestrians, not just the blind. In certain situations, electric or hybrid vehicles are twice as likely to be involved in collisions with pedestrians. The NFB looks forward to working with the safety agency in the crafting of appropriate standards establishing an acceptable level of minimum vehicle sound.”
“The National Federation of the Blind appreciates the opportunity to work with General Motors on this problem,” said Dr. Marc Maurer, president of the National Federation of the Blind. “We urge all automobile manufacturers to work with the blind in designing vehicle sounds to alert us to the approach, speed and direction of vehicles so that both drivers and pedestrians can safely use America’s roadways.”
A low-level low-speed vehicular sound for EVs may be inevitable, though no formal federal regulations currently exist. Future legislation may arise in concert with input from the Society of Automotive engineers to develop a national standard.
A lack of consensus and standards among automakers could conceivably result in a virtual cacophony of discordant sounds once streets become filled with EVs from various automakers. Thus all cars should produce similar sounds, likely ruling-out the possibility of customizable “car tones,” as some pundits have speculated about.
Like it or not, the sound of silence appears to be on its way.
Below is GM’s video on the sound of the Volt:
Article Courtesty: www.gm-volt.com
A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published in September reveled bicyclists and pedestrians are struck at a significantly higher rate by hybrid as opposed to conventional cars.
GM has created a special pedestrian alert signal for the Chevy Volt. ”It is an active system,” says Chief engineer Andrew Farah, meaning the driver must activate it. Passive systems produce a sound at all times. The Volt pedestrian alert sound is a light volume horn-like sound similar to the chirp of some cars keyless entry indicators. ”It has to be automotive,” says Farah referring to the quality of the tone.
The fist generation Chevy Volt will not be equipped with a passive alert system. Competitor Nissan has reportedly developed a system for its upcoming LEAF EV which sounds like a floating car from the Bladerunner movie. GM is looking at the possibility of passive alert for future Volt generations. Other electric automakers such as Tesla remain uncertain.
Today GM has announced that they formed a partnership with the National Federation for the Blind to identify what will be a “safe level of sound” for alerting visually impaired and other pedestrians to the approach of a silent running EV.
Meetings have begun earlier this year and are also aimed at protecting runners, cyclists, and children.
“We have significant background in the area of pedestrian alerts dating to our work on our first electric car, the EV1,” Farah said, “The most important thing is to listen to the people who will interact with these vehicles in everyday life.”
Deborah Kent Stein, who chairs the NFB’s Committee on Automobile and Pedestrian Safety, said, “A recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) demonstrated that the silent operation of hybrid vehicles is an issue for all pedestrians, not just the blind. In certain situations, electric or hybrid vehicles are twice as likely to be involved in collisions with pedestrians. The NFB looks forward to working with the safety agency in the crafting of appropriate standards establishing an acceptable level of minimum vehicle sound.”
“The National Federation of the Blind appreciates the opportunity to work with General Motors on this problem,” said Dr. Marc Maurer, president of the National Federation of the Blind. “We urge all automobile manufacturers to work with the blind in designing vehicle sounds to alert us to the approach, speed and direction of vehicles so that both drivers and pedestrians can safely use America’s roadways.”
A low-level low-speed vehicular sound for EVs may be inevitable, though no formal federal regulations currently exist. Future legislation may arise in concert with input from the Society of Automotive engineers to develop a national standard.
A lack of consensus and standards among automakers could conceivably result in a virtual cacophony of discordant sounds once streets become filled with EVs from various automakers. Thus all cars should produce similar sounds, likely ruling-out the possibility of customizable “car tones,” as some pundits have speculated about.
Like it or not, the sound of silence appears to be on its way.
Below is GM’s video on the sound of the Volt:
Article Courtesty: www.gm-volt.com
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Health Alerts: Macular Degeneration
10:55 AM CST on Tuesday, November 24, 2009
The New York Times
MACULAR DEGENERATION
Therapies can help prevent vision damage
Cases of age-related macular degeneration are expected to rise significantly by 2050, but better use of therapies is expected to lower the percentage of cases that result in vision loss and disability.
Scientists at Research Triangle Institute International analyzed existing data and projected the disease's future prevalence based on various treatment scenarios. Their study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, concludes that cases will increase from 9.1 million in 2010 to 17.8 million in 2050. They attribute almost all of the increases to aging of the U.S. population.
The disease causes deterioration of the macula, the main area of the retina, a thin tissue at the back of the eye where light-sensitive cells send signals to the brain. Damage to the macula results in blurred or distorted vision and blind spots.
Study authors say existing therapies could cut visual impairment by as much as 35 percent. One cost-effective way to delay the disease, researchers say, is through antioxidant vitamin therapy.
SOURCES: American Health Assistance Foundation; Archives of Ophthalmology
The New York Times
MACULAR DEGENERATION
Therapies can help prevent vision damage
Cases of age-related macular degeneration are expected to rise significantly by 2050, but better use of therapies is expected to lower the percentage of cases that result in vision loss and disability.
Scientists at Research Triangle Institute International analyzed existing data and projected the disease's future prevalence based on various treatment scenarios. Their study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, concludes that cases will increase from 9.1 million in 2010 to 17.8 million in 2050. They attribute almost all of the increases to aging of the U.S. population.
The disease causes deterioration of the macula, the main area of the retina, a thin tissue at the back of the eye where light-sensitive cells send signals to the brain. Damage to the macula results in blurred or distorted vision and blind spots.
Study authors say existing therapies could cut visual impairment by as much as 35 percent. One cost-effective way to delay the disease, researchers say, is through antioxidant vitamin therapy.
SOURCES: American Health Assistance Foundation; Archives of Ophthalmology
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Carroll Center for the Blind Tech Fair
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEEDITORIAL CONTACT:
Jack Sheehan
Director of Marketing
Vision Dynamics
203-271-1944
jack@visiondynamics.com
November annually provides many things for the visually impaired to be thankful for.
Thanksgiving Day and the Carroll Center for the Blind Tech Fair are two of them
Cheshire, CT – November 17, 2009.
There have been some really great fall days lately and that means Thanksgiving Day cannot be far off. Actually this year it happens to be November 26th, and that means the annual Carroll Center Tech Fair will be on Tuesday, November 24th, from 10:00 AM to 3 PM. in the Exhibitor Hall at The Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre Street, Newton, MA.
This event provides an opportunity for all to come and see the many vision aids available for those who need help with any of the many forms of vision impairment. It also is a chance for the professionals in this field and the caretakers to learn about what they can use to help others. Vision Dynamics will be joining the many exhibitors in presenting products and explaining services.
We at Vision Dynamics really look forward to this event every year. It is an opportunity for our staff to shine! We get a chance to show all the many vision aids we carry and really emphasize all the changes and improvements. Our staff will be available to explain the features of these tools and advise on selecting the proper aid for each individual.
We have a couple of items to put the word out on this year. We have made some additions to our staff. Vision Dynamics is expanding our field staff to meet the commitments to our long term goals of extending our services in Southern New England.
We have added Marion O’Donnell in Eastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island and the Cape area. Marion will be using her 26 years of experience in the health care industry and her personal experience in caretaking for her Mother and Father. Both were visually impaired and Marion devoted many years to helping them and learning firsthand how to provide that help.
We have also added Dr. Rick Ely to the Western Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire area. Dr. Rick, visually impaired himself, brings a wealth of knowledge of our industry and a strong background in teaching people with vision impairments. Once again, a person able to share his personal experiences to those who need help.
Fall is traditionally harvest time for all. Come to the Tech Fair and harvest all the information there to enjoy a better life for you and your loved ones. What a great way to remind us of all of what we have to be grateful for on Thanksgiving Day!
Vision Dynamics is Southern New England’s premier company serving the needs of the Low Vision and Blind population. Its mission is to empower and inspire people with low vision, blindness, and learning difficulties with the hope, desire and ability to lead happy and independent lives. Discover more at www.visiondynamics.com.
Friday, October 2, 2009
A great example of recovery from a disaster
A great example of recovery from a disaster using the visual aids available today!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Seeking shade: Sunglasses crucial year-round for eye protection
By TINA HINZ
WATERLOO --- Sunglasses are more than a fashionable accessory.
They can save your eyes from permanent damage.
"We say it's like sunscreen for your eyes," said optician Arlen Happel at Mauer Eye Center.
Too much time outdoors without adequate eye protection could penetrate the retina and lead to cataracts, Macular Degeneration or skin cancer around the eyelids, according to Prevent Blindness America, a national volunteer health and safety organization.
Sunglasses should block ultraviolet radiation found in everyday sunlight. Look for a label that says the lenses offer 100 percent UV protection. Regular prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses can be coated with the clear UV solution, as UV light can otherwise refract through and intensify exposure.
Darker-tinted lenses don't mean more protection; they simply enhance comfort and vision in bright light.
If you're unsure whether your eyewear is protected, ask an eye doctor to test it with a UV detector.
"You don't see a lot of sunglasses that aren't (UV protected) anymore," Happel said.
Tinted clip-on lenses, designed to fit over your regular prescription glasses, offer UV protection and are available at area department stores and optical centers. However, the cheaper versions usually are lower quality and have potential for warping and distortion, said Cindi Nelson, an optician at The EyeCare Associates.
Nelson highly recommends polarized lenses, which protect the eyes and reduce glare while driving.
"You can have a real dark sunglass, but you still find yourself squinting, and that's the glare," she said.
Sunglasses often are mistakenly limited to hot temperatures and beaches but should be worn year-round, including on cloudy days. Snow skiers are as much at risk as boaters for sun-related eye damage.
"The reflection of the sun off the snow is probably equally as bad as that off of water, pavement or a car hood," Happel said.
The more sun your shades filter, the better, Happel said. That's why the latest trend of women wearing oversized lenses is beneficial to their health. Also, a brimmed hat helps block overhead or side light.
Don't forget about the kids. Prevent Blindness America suggests sunglasses that fit well, are impact resistant, don't have lenses that pop out of their frames and are large enough to shield the eyes from most angles.
"People don't think about it, but children are outside a lot," Nelson said.
WATERLOO --- Sunglasses are more than a fashionable accessory.
They can save your eyes from permanent damage.
"We say it's like sunscreen for your eyes," said optician Arlen Happel at Mauer Eye Center.
Too much time outdoors without adequate eye protection could penetrate the retina and lead to cataracts, Macular Degeneration or skin cancer around the eyelids, according to Prevent Blindness America, a national volunteer health and safety organization.
Sunglasses should block ultraviolet radiation found in everyday sunlight. Look for a label that says the lenses offer 100 percent UV protection. Regular prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses can be coated with the clear UV solution, as UV light can otherwise refract through and intensify exposure.
Darker-tinted lenses don't mean more protection; they simply enhance comfort and vision in bright light.
If you're unsure whether your eyewear is protected, ask an eye doctor to test it with a UV detector.
"You don't see a lot of sunglasses that aren't (UV protected) anymore," Happel said.
Tinted clip-on lenses, designed to fit over your regular prescription glasses, offer UV protection and are available at area department stores and optical centers. However, the cheaper versions usually are lower quality and have potential for warping and distortion, said Cindi Nelson, an optician at The EyeCare Associates.
Nelson highly recommends polarized lenses, which protect the eyes and reduce glare while driving.
"You can have a real dark sunglass, but you still find yourself squinting, and that's the glare," she said.
Sunglasses often are mistakenly limited to hot temperatures and beaches but should be worn year-round, including on cloudy days. Snow skiers are as much at risk as boaters for sun-related eye damage.
"The reflection of the sun off the snow is probably equally as bad as that off of water, pavement or a car hood," Happel said.
The more sun your shades filter, the better, Happel said. That's why the latest trend of women wearing oversized lenses is beneficial to their health. Also, a brimmed hat helps block overhead or side light.
Don't forget about the kids. Prevent Blindness America suggests sunglasses that fit well, are impact resistant, don't have lenses that pop out of their frames and are large enough to shield the eyes from most angles.
"People don't think about it, but children are outside a lot," Nelson said.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Why You Should Use a Cane
Hello everyone! My name is Tracy and I am currently a member of the Vision Dynamics team. I have Macular Degeneration and Retinitis Pigmentosa and have had some exciting experiences using a cane. I'd love to share with you some ideas about moving more safely in your neighborhood and community.
First, it is a great way to communicate to others that you have a site problem. It takes the guess work out of the situation Many times when you have low vision you bump into things or may look a little disoriented. The cane puts it out there that you are visually impaired and not drunk.
Many folks think they don’t need it but don’t realize that they usually walk in the same places most of the time and become very familiar in their environment. It is when they are in a new place that they have difficulty. They don’t want to admit it and think that they have fooled everyone. It is hard to let everyone know you have a problem, but by doing so you are becoming part of those who are ambassadors for taking the steps necessary to be independent.
When using a cane you gather so much more information about the surface you are walking on. I do much better along with a cane than I do when someone is leading me. When you put your mobility into someone else’s hands, you are leaving it up to their interpretation.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
Palmetto Health Easley - Care You Can Believe In
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
How healthy is your child’s vision? This is an appropriate question to ask anytime but especially in August during Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month.
According to Prevent Blindness America, a volunteer eye health and safety organization founded in 1908, without good vision, a child’s ability to learn about the world becomes more difficult. Vision problems affect one in 20 preschoolers and one in four school-age children. Since many vision problems begin at an early age, it is very important that children receive proper eye care. If left untreated, eye problems can worsen and lead to other serious problems as well as affect learning ability, personality, and adjustment in school.
Here are some common eye problems:
• Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is a loss of vision in an eye that is not corrected by glasses alone.
• Crossed eyes, or strabismus, describes eyes that are not straight or do not line up with each other. If not treated, it can cause lazy eye or amblyopia.
• Color deficiency or color blindness does not literally mean blind to color. Instead, children with this condition have difficulty identifying some colors.
• Nearsightedness or myopia describes the condition when the eyeball is too long for the normal focusing power of the eye. This results in images of distant objects appearing blurred.
• Farsightedness or hyperopia is the condition where the eyeball is too short for the normal focusing power of the eye. In children, the lens in the eye accommodates for this error and provides clear vision for distance and usually near viewing, but with considerable effort that often causes fatigue and sometimes crossed eyes.
• Astigmatism results primarily from an irregular shape of the front surface of the cornea. Children with astigmatism typically see vertical lines more clearly than horizontal ones, and sometimes the reverse.
What are signs that may indicate your child has a vision problem? Prevent Blindness America provides the following tips to parents:
What do your child’s eyes look like?
• Eyes do not line up where one appears crossed or looks out
• Eyelids are red-rimmed, crusted or swollen
• Eyes are watery or red (inflamed)
How does your child act?
• Rubs eyes a lot
• Closes or covers one eye
• Tilts head or thrusts head forward
• Has difficulty in reading or doing other close-up work, or holds objects close to eyes to see
• Blinks more than usual or seems cranky when doing close-up work
• Describes objects as being blurry or hard to see
• Squints eyes or frowns
What could your child say?
• “My eyes are itchy,” “My eyes are burning,” or “My eyes feel scratchy.”
• “I can’t see very well.”
• After doing close-up work, your child says “I feel dizzy,” “I have a headache” or “I feel sick/nauseous.”
• “Everything looks blurry,” or “I see double.”
According to Tiffany Sullivan, Vision Health Initiative director, this program seeks to eliminate barriers that prevent low-income, uninsured children from receiving vision care so that they can receive the full benefits of being in school. She said, “The benefit of good vision is not just being able to see the chalkboard or being able to see 20/20. Healthy vision involves being able to use one’s eyes for life. Proper vision helps a child analyze and respond to what is seen and to understand the other senses. Vision is a learned ability, and problems with vision can affect the development, adjustment and achievement of a child.”
As we observe Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, if your child needs to be examined for vision problems, contact your child’s school nurse or try free vision screenings.
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
How healthy is your child’s vision? This is an appropriate question to ask anytime but especially in August during Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month.
According to Prevent Blindness America, a volunteer eye health and safety organization founded in 1908, without good vision, a child’s ability to learn about the world becomes more difficult. Vision problems affect one in 20 preschoolers and one in four school-age children. Since many vision problems begin at an early age, it is very important that children receive proper eye care. If left untreated, eye problems can worsen and lead to other serious problems as well as affect learning ability, personality, and adjustment in school.
Here are some common eye problems:
• Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is a loss of vision in an eye that is not corrected by glasses alone.
• Crossed eyes, or strabismus, describes eyes that are not straight or do not line up with each other. If not treated, it can cause lazy eye or amblyopia.
• Color deficiency or color blindness does not literally mean blind to color. Instead, children with this condition have difficulty identifying some colors.
• Nearsightedness or myopia describes the condition when the eyeball is too long for the normal focusing power of the eye. This results in images of distant objects appearing blurred.
• Farsightedness or hyperopia is the condition where the eyeball is too short for the normal focusing power of the eye. In children, the lens in the eye accommodates for this error and provides clear vision for distance and usually near viewing, but with considerable effort that often causes fatigue and sometimes crossed eyes.
• Astigmatism results primarily from an irregular shape of the front surface of the cornea. Children with astigmatism typically see vertical lines more clearly than horizontal ones, and sometimes the reverse.
What are signs that may indicate your child has a vision problem? Prevent Blindness America provides the following tips to parents:
What do your child’s eyes look like?
• Eyes do not line up where one appears crossed or looks out
• Eyelids are red-rimmed, crusted or swollen
• Eyes are watery or red (inflamed)
How does your child act?
• Rubs eyes a lot
• Closes or covers one eye
• Tilts head or thrusts head forward
• Has difficulty in reading or doing other close-up work, or holds objects close to eyes to see
• Blinks more than usual or seems cranky when doing close-up work
• Describes objects as being blurry or hard to see
• Squints eyes or frowns
What could your child say?
• “My eyes are itchy,” “My eyes are burning,” or “My eyes feel scratchy.”
• “I can’t see very well.”
• After doing close-up work, your child says “I feel dizzy,” “I have a headache” or “I feel sick/nauseous.”
• “Everything looks blurry,” or “I see double.”
According to Tiffany Sullivan, Vision Health Initiative director, this program seeks to eliminate barriers that prevent low-income, uninsured children from receiving vision care so that they can receive the full benefits of being in school. She said, “The benefit of good vision is not just being able to see the chalkboard or being able to see 20/20. Healthy vision involves being able to use one’s eyes for life. Proper vision helps a child analyze and respond to what is seen and to understand the other senses. Vision is a learned ability, and problems with vision can affect the development, adjustment and achievement of a child.”
As we observe Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, if your child needs to be examined for vision problems, contact your child’s school nurse or try free vision screenings.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Clearview+ CCTV
Hello low vision friends, my name is Marge. I work here at Vision Dynamics and I have macular degeneration. Let me tell you about the new Optelec 22" Clearview Plus CCTV. It helps you read easily and effortlessly. I own this machine and with it, I am able to read bills, write checks, read mail and magazines, see the labels on medication and look at photographs. But most importantly is that with this CCTV, I can continue my love of reading. It can magnify anything you put under it, from 2x to 72x its size. It’s extremely easy to use and the focus is very clear.
If one wants their independence back, this is the only way to go. If anyone has any questions, I can share my low vision experiences with you and tell you of other products that will help you with every day living problems. Please feel free to call (203) 271- 1944 and ask for Marge!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Featured Product: Eschenbach Max TV Glasses
Recommended by: Marge Stefanec, a low vision employee of Vision Dynamics
"They're for distance and are especially useful when I go to the theater for plays. When I wear them, I can see the whole stage and the actors' faces."
Eschenbach MaxTV Binocular Glasses are perfect for anyone with low vision conditions or macular degeneration who needs help with distance viewing. They work just like binoculars, except easier to use because they are hands-free, and more attractive with a modern, high tech frame. The main purpose of the Max TV Glasses is for watching television, but the glasses are multifunctional. They can be used in a variety of activities, like outdoors at the beach or bird watching, at church to see the altar, going to a movie, or at a sporting event. Max TV Glasses can be adjusted so that each eye lens can be focused separately. The glasses have a 2.1x Magnification and can focus on an object from 10 feet away to infinity. These glasses are one of the most comfortable and useful distance viewing devices.
"I love them and use them all the time. I would recommend them to anyone who's visually impaired."
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