The landscape of assistive technology is undergoing a seismic shift, with smartphones, wearables, and other innovations playing a pivotal role in empowering individuals with vision loss. While artificial intelligence (AI) has gained much attention, a broader spectrum of accessible technology is contributing to enhanced independence and a higher quality of life.
The evolving landscape of assistive technology
Assistive technology has long aided those with vision impairment. Historically, solutions varied from low-tech aids like magnifiers to complex devices like screen readers. However, smartphones and wearables have ushered in a new era of accessibility. These mainstream technologies, with dedicated apps and features, offer increasingly sophisticated support.
Smartphones, in particular, are powerful tools. Their availability and versatility mean accessibility features integrate into devices many already own. This reduces the need for costly equipment and promotes seamless daily use.
Smartphones: A hub of accessibility
The modern smartphone is more than a communication device. For those with vision loss, it's a navigational aid, reading assistant, and tool for enhanced communication.
Operating systems like Apple's iOS prioritize accessibility. Tools to increase text size and contrast, reduce transparency and motion, and provide spoken feedback are standard. These features are personalized for effective user interaction. Furthermore, smartphones streamline tasks via automation. Apps like Apple's Shortcuts automate tasks with clicks or voice commands. AI enhances this, enabling users to scan and read materials, summarise emails, and describe scenes via the phone's camera.
“Assistive technology has been around for some time, through screen readers on mobile phones or as standalone devices designed specifically for people with visual impairments’, says Daniel Rowles, Guide Dogs Vision Rehabilitation Specialist. “But in the past two years, advances in camera technology and a growing ecosystem of apps have transformed the smartphone into a powerful tool for supporting independence”.
Wearables: hands-free independence
Wearable technology, like smart watches and glasses, is another key advancement. These devices offer hands-free access to smartphone functions, further enhancing independence.
Smart watches dictate messages, receive notifications, and control devices without direct screen interaction. This is helpful when using a phone that is cumbersome or unsafe. Smart glasses are also transformative. Devices like Ray-Ban Meta glasses enable hands-free calls, messaging, photo capture, and phone control via voice. This improves situational awareness and movement.
My streamlined workflow: an assistive tech story
The integration of assistive technology has truly revolutionized my daily workflow, boosting both my efficiency and independence. By strategically combining several devices, I've created a personalised system that minimizes eye strain and maximizes productivity.
At my workstation, a large-print keyboard and trackpad offer tactile precision, while a Stream Deck provides instant access to apps and shortcuts, significantly reducing the need to navigate on-screen.
A bone conduction headset keeps me connected to my computer's audio while maintaining awareness of my surroundings, and it's invaluable for voice commands and dictation, which has become my primary method of text input.
My iPhone and Meta Glasses work seamlessly together; messages are read aloud through the glasses, and I can use voice commands to control my phone. The glasses also provide instant visual descriptions, which is incredibly helpful for reading printed materials.
My Apple Watch acts as a convenient control hub, allowing me to manage reminders, messages, and even smart home devices on the go. The flexibility of this setup means I can adapt to various situations.
This interconnected ecosystem of technology empowers me to work effectively and confidently, demonstrating the profound impact of assistive tech.
The symbiotic relationship between technology and human support
While technology enhances independence, human support remains crucial. Effective solutions often combine both.
Apps like Be My Eyes exemplify this. By connecting individuals with vision loss to sighted volunteers, these platforms offer on-demand visual assistance for tasks technology can't yet handle. This integration of digital innovation and human support creates a powerful system.
Moreover, community and peer support are vital. Connecting with others who share experiences provides invaluable support and advice. Organisations such as Glaucoma UK and Blind Ambition, offer peer-driven community support and are key resources for patients and families.
Empowerment through self-advocacy
Self-advocacy is key when integrating assistive technology. Individuals with vision loss are urged to proactively seek and adopt new tools and strategies. This means engaging with healthcare professionals, exploring resources, and experimenting to find suitable solutions.
Healthcare professionals are also crucial. By staying informed about assistive technology advancements, they can better advise and support patients. Open communication and shared decision-making empower patients to actively manage their condition.
Emerging technologies and trends
Assistive technology is constantly evolving, with several emerging trends promising to further enhance the lives of individuals with vision loss:
AI-powered navigation and obstacle detection. AI is developing navigation systems to help individuals with vision loss move more safely and independently. These systems use cameras and sensors to detect obstacles and provide real-time guidance. This technology is also being integrated into some white canes.
Augmented reality (AR) and environmental awareness. AR technology overlays digital information onto the real world, enhancing users' environmental awareness. For example, AR glasses could provide auditory cues about objects or highlight landmarks.
Voice-activated and personalised digital accessibility tools. Voice control is becoming increasingly sophisticated, enabling hands-free interaction with devices and services. Personalised settings can tailor these tools.
Smart home integration. Assistive technology increasingly integrates with smart home systems, allowing individuals with vision loss to control home functions via voice commands or accessible interfaces.
Daniel Rowles adds, “Real-time environmental awareness, turn-by-turn navigation, and highly accurate identification tools have all seen significant progress. The emergence of compact wearables – such as the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses – combined with the rapid evolution of AI means assistive technology is now more discreet, accessible, and affordable than ever before. For example, around half of the Guide Dogs service users I work with now own and use Meta Ray-Ban glasses.”
While assistive technology is highly promising, its limitations must be acknowledged. Data privacy and app accessibility require attention to ensure inclusivity.
Practical advice and resources
To further support both patients and professionals, it is essential to provide practical advice and resources. This may include:
Links to organizations that provide information and support for people with vision loss.
Guidance on how to access and utilise accessibility features on smartphones and other devices.
Information on training programs and workshops that teach assistive technology skills.
Tips for creating accessible environments at home and in the workplace.
By providing these resources, we can help to ensure that individuals with vision loss have the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.
A future of enhanced independence
The future of assistive technology is promising. As technology evolves, more innovative solutions will emerge, further empowering individuals with vision loss. The potential is vast, and by embracing advancements and collaboration between patients, professionals, and developers, we can create a world where vision loss is no longer a barrier to independence and fulfillment.
Call to action
Professionals: Stay informed about the latest advancements in assistive technology and proactively share this knowledge with your patients. Foster a supportive environment that encourages open communication and empowers patients to take control of their vision care.
Patients: Take an active role in exploring and adopting assistive technologies. Advocate for your needs and work collaboratively with your healthcare providers to find solutions that enhance your independence and quality of life.
Useful links and resources
Assistive technology products
Videos and reviews of assistive technology
Articles on assistive technology
