Posted by: Carolinas Center for Sight in Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration affects vision in several different ways. Blurred vision and loss of central vision are the two most common problems. Everyone experiences different degrees of vision loss. Some may be at the beginning stages with just slight blurriness and a need for additional light while others with more advanced macular degeneration have large scotomas (gray or dark spots right in the middle of their vision).
However, no matter what stage you have, there is still some usable vision. The main purpose of visual aids for macular degeneration is to help maximize that usable vision. The most well-known low vision aids would be magnifiers. Instead of trying to magnify everything, getting something with larger numbers is another option.
For example, perhaps you have a hard time seeing the numbers on your bedside clock. By simply getting a clock that uses large numbers and contrasting colors, you can see the time so much easier. You may not even be aware of all the things that one can get that are “supersized,” inexpensive and yet so helpful.
By checking mass merchandiser retail stores and online suppliers of low vision products, you should easily find large display clocks and watches. These time-keeping aids have big, clear numbers and hands that help make keeping track of time much easier. Talking clocks and watches offer a sense of security to whoever wears them. At the touch of a button, the user can instantly have the time spoken to them. The time is spoken in a loud, clear voice. Some products even have an alarm function. These large number clocks and watches make it easier to tell the time during the day or in the middle of the night. This will make your life or the life of your loved ones easier and more independent.
— Article by Leslie Degner, WebRN-Macular Degeneration
