Technology is always advancing with new approaches to the Low Vision problem periodically added and older technologies being upgraded.

Fortunately, many of the devices in use by normally sighted individuals can be tweaked to assist Low Vision and Blind patients, an approach that results in far lower costs than a device custom designed from the ground up.

Our office constantly evaluates new devices to determine if a less costly approach will meet the patient’s needs or if a more expensive device is a better fit. Smart Phones and Tablets are currently capable of doing amazing things for visually impaired persons, assuming the correct apps are used and sufficient training is provided.

One example of this conundrum is the Orcam. It’s print to speech and facial recognition features work well, but so do some free apps for smart phones The “coolness” factor of mounting on your glasses is a big selling point, but should you pay $3500 for something your smartphone can do for FREE?

Dr. O’Connell lectures on Low Vision Technology regularly, and he takes the time to evaluate these products for his lectures, and for his patients, so that he can provide unbiased and real recommendations.

Westchester Low Vision provides software and hardware recommendations, provide basic training on apps that will help and can make referrals to places in the NY Metro Region where more comprehensive training is provided if needed.