Top 10 Low Vision Aids for Retirement Communities
We are pleased to announce the release of our Top 10 Low Vision Aids for Retirement Communities
How many people in your Retirement Community suffer from vision loss?
According to the National Eye Institute, approximately 1 in 3 Americans 65 and older have some form of vision-reducing eye disease.
For Your Residents With Vision Loss
Our Top Low Vision Aids for Retirement Communities will open the door to life-changing resources for residents with vision loss! Our life-changing resources are designed to help residents live more independently and enjoy:
- Read and sort mail
- View calendar of activities
- See prescription bottles
- Know expiration dates
- Find phone numbers
- Manage finances
- Smile at family photos
- Enjoy crossword puzzles
- Help with make-up and hair
- The list goes on and on…
For Owners & Managers
Help your residents live more independently. Together we improve outcomes for a resident’s revitalized self-esteem and renewed quality of life and help seniors to thrive. We have latest and most advanced low vision and blindness technology with the finest personal service for you.
About Vision Loss of Seniors
The statistics of seniors with vision loss can vary depending on the source and the specific population being studied. Here are some general statistics related to vision loss in seniors:
- According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 253 million people worldwide are visually impaired, and of these, around 36 million are blind.
- As people age, the risk of developing vision loss increases. The National Eye Institute (NEI) reports that among Americans aged 65 and older, approximately one in three has some form of vision-reducing eye disease.
- The leading causes of vision loss in seniors include age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy.
- AMD is the most common cause of irreversible vision loss among seniors. The NEI estimates that approximately 11 million Americans have some form of AMD, and this number is expected to increase as the population ages.
- Cataracts are another common cause of vision loss among seniors. The NEI reports that by age 80, more than half of all Americans have cataracts or have had cataract surgery.
- Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can cause irreversible vision loss if left untreated. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, approximately 2.7 million Americans aged 40 and older have glaucoma, and this number is expected to reach 4.3 million by 2030.
- Diabetes is a significant risk factor for vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy. The American Diabetes Association reports that approximately 28.5% of Americans aged 65 or older have diabetes.
It’s important to note that these statistics are not exhaustive and may vary based on the study and population being examined.
1. DaVinci Pro Desktop Magnifier
2. Merlin HD Ultra 24” Desktop Magnifier
3. LyriQ Text-to-Speech Reader
4. Patriot ViewPoint Low Vision Glasses
5. Vision Buddy V2 Low Vision Glasses
6. Ruby XL HD Portable Magnifier
7. explorē 12 Portable Magnifier With Stand
8. explorē 8 Handheld Magnifier
9. Mr. Magnifier 5″ Handheld Magnifier
10. MagniLink Zip Premium 13″ Full HD Desktop Magnifier
1. DaVinci Pro Desktop Magnifier
DaVinci Pro for the 7th year in a row leads the pack in low vision aids. It is continually upgraded and is still considered the “best-of-the-best” when it comes to an everyday simple-to-use low vision desktop magnifier workstation. DaVinci Pro’s 3-in-1 Full HD camera displays a super-sharp true-to-life crisp image with no ghosting. DaVinci Pro casts a very wide viewable field and it has an incredible 18″ of working space for almost any reading and writing task.
Its 13mp full-page OCR camera is nearly 100% accurate for reading newspapers, books, magazines, newsletters, and it is very easy to operate.
DaVinci Pro has passed the test of both our most novice and our most advanced power users. It still remains the perfect low vision tool for home, libraries, college disability rooms, senior centers, and retirement communities.
2. Merlin HD Ultra 24” Desktop Electronic Video Magnifier
The Merlin HD Ultra 24” Desktop Magnifier is a top product for its extreme simplicity, extreme durability, and extreme popularity. It now has a new camera with a super-sharp image, an expanded field of view, magnification up to 104x. Merlin HD is a tool that opens one heart. Why? Take out a photo of a loved one. Consider the moment when looking at pictures of Mom, Dad, Children or Grandchildren or of a special occasion. It is a very emotional and intense experience. Viewing a photo can impact our deepest self with a broad range of feelings and instantaneously bring to mind hundreds of thoughts all at once. Photos have a unique way of bringing to life a distant memory once again in the present day. They have a way of telling an important part of the story of our life. Photos can remind us of a family vacation, a loving spouse, a wedding, our childhood, a forgotten friendship, an important life event, how much we are loved, how all the experiences of our lives come together. Photos can make it all real again, and warm our hearts. The Merlin HD is also excellent for viewing most any common household document or object that most individuals would like to see. For example, reading and sorting mail, newspapers, Rx #’s, managing finances, and a whole lot more!
3. LyriQ Text-to-Speech Reader
The LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader is an AUTOMATIC SCAN text-to-speech reader, which means the user does not have to press any buttons for simple and immediate text-to-speech conversion. The LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader also has an incredible fifteen (15) hour rechargeable battery, weighs only 3lbs, and folds flat for easy portability. The LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader is designed to assist people living with blindness or vision impairments by scanning printed documents and read them out loud. It is spectacularly fast, extremely accurate, and very easy to use. With the LyriQ Assistive Text-to-Speech Reader, you can read a book, an envelope, the letter that came in it, a prescription label, and anything else.
4. Patriot ViewPoint Low Vision Glasses
The Patriot ViewPoint Low Vision Glasses primary appeal is its stunning wide-field image quality and its simplicity to operate. The ideal user is someone diagnosed with Macular Degeneration, Stargardt’s or any form of Central Vision loss. The wide, high-quality 101º viewable field display on a 4” wireless monitor, allows users to bring any distant object close to their eyes. Along with distance viewing tasks, users can also use the Patriot ViewPoint Low Vision Glasses for near viewing, to read books, documents and see objects that are nearby. Many have commented on how nice it is to see people’s faces, watch TV and read the newspaper. It also has Optical Character Recognition (OCR) that works surprisingly well. The Patriot Viewpoint is highly recommended for those who are struggling with the center loss of vision. Ophthalmologists and all eye care professionals are encouraged to inform their patients to try it and see how much it helps.
5. Vision Buddy V2 Low Vision Glasses
Vision Buddy is unique in that it Magnifies a direct-feed of your TV. One more time, it Magnifies the direct TV feed. This is unique.
This is the primary benefit, allowing users to easily magnify their TV image, and be able to lay in their bed and look up at the ceiling and their TV will broadcast directly to the headset magnifying the TV image up to 10 times the original size. It is an incredible experience.
Vision Buddy is the world’s first ultra-simple Television Watching System for the visually impaired. Plug the Vision Buddy Streamer to an existing cable tv box or any other tv provider, and watch live Television on the Vision Buddy headset.
Specially designed for various low vision eye conditions like Age-related Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Retinitis Pigmentosa, etc. Zoom in or out to enjoy a movie theater experience right in your living room. With a click of a button switch to magnification/camera mode and see the world around you.
It’s that simple. Make sure to receive a personal demonstration.
6. Ruby XL HD Portable Magnifier
The Ruby XL HD Portable Magnifier is back again on our top 10 list! Often our most popular hand-held portable magnifier because it is very simple to operate; it has a 3hr rechargeable battery, angles at a built-in 45 degrees on a 5″ screen, easy automatic ‘on/off’ feature, displays a crystal clear image, hides a foldable built-in handle, and it does not tip…it is stable. The slim Ruby XL HD Portable Magnifier goes anywhere with you, and you can magnify materials up to 14 times. Great for restaurants, Rx #’s, expiration dates, price tags, thermostats, labels, and more. Easy to learn and to use, whether at home, in the office, or on the go. A time-tested staple of all portable low vision aids, it is a smart decision to make sure anyone with vision loss has a chance to see what the Ruby XL HD can do for them.
7. explorē 12 Portable Magnifier With Stand
The explorē 12 Portable Magnifier is the largest in the Explore line of portable magnifiers. Designed as an easy-to-use electronic magnifier that offers superb full high-definition image quality for improved near and distance viewing allowing you to do the things you want. The 12-inch touch screen is the perfect magnifier for anyone who wants a larger interface for reading, writing, painting, drawing and so much more. With its superior magnification range, this tablet-sized magnifier allows the continuation of everyday activities like reading and writing, viewing pictures and maps, and much more, just about anywhere. With a lightweight design and 3.5-hour battery life, it’s an ideal companion for maintaining your active lifestyle wherever you are, at home or on the go. explorē 12 Portable Magnifier is not only easy to carry but also very simple to use. Just pull it out of your bag, turn it on and it’s ready when you are!
8. Explorē 8 Handheld Magnifier
Big-Screen experience in a portable package. Explore 8 Handheld Magnifier is a smart, portable, touch-screen, two-camera tablet, designed with the user in mind. The unmatched clarity of image with the most powerful camera on the market. Easy to use, intuitive use, and one-touch buttons to activate features. Light, portable, customizable. This is the perfect electronic video magnifier for anyone with low vision and age-related macular degeneration. More than ever, people with low vision are looking for a powerful yet lightweight tool to help them see clearly in their daily activities. Our latest innovation? The Explore 8 Handheld Magnifier, a Touchscreen HD handheld magnifier for active people who prefer a large screen but still want maximum portability. It is smaller, lighter and more affordable than most 7-inch magnifiers on the market while providing a screen more than 30% larger, designed to make life easier—and a whole lot clearer.
9. Mr. Magnifier 5 Handheld Magnifier
The Mr. Magnifier 5 Handheld Magnifier is a convenient aid for anyone with low vision. Small and compact, it can come to your aid anytime, anywhere. It magnifies from 2X to 32X on its LCD screen. The Mr. Magnifier 5 Handheld Magnifier offers multiple display modes to suit your individual vision needs. It allows you to freeze text, adjust brightness, highlight on reading text horizontally and vertically, and capture/save/recall images for easier viewing. The Mr. Magnifier 5 Handheld Magnifier is the perfect magnifier for reading, and viewing maps, menus, recipes, and medication labels. It is also great for reading labels and tags at retail stores or anywhere you need bright light and convenient magnification. It is also the perfect handheld magnifier to view photographs on all digital devices or physical photos! This handheld magnifier allows you to take that trip down memory lane.
10. MagniLink Zip Premium 13″ Full HD Desktop Magnifier
The MagniLink Zip Premium Full HD 13 desktop magnifier is at the forefront of modern technology and a winner of the prestigious Red Dot Design Award. It was developed to be easy to use, light in weight, and with small dimensions when folded down. LVI products are built in a modular style which means there are many models to choose from in order to fit the requirements of each user. This model is equipped with a Full Hi-Definition monitor and reading/distance camera.
Uncompromising true-color image quality is ever-present and the MagniLink Zip Premium Full HD 13 desktop magnifier is intuitive and user-friendly. The control panel was designed according to the highest technology standards and with client feedback in mind. It’s easy to find, learn, and maneuver – for example, the function knobs rotate and are simple to handle, easily seen, and there is an advanced mode for advanced users.
The 13.3-inch monitor has brightly colored screen edges, an anti-glare surface, provides crystal-clear sharpness, high contrast images, and a dimmer mode for light-sensitive users. The screen can be adjusted by tilting it forward, backward, and for height and produces images in Full Hi-Definition (1080p). This is the most portable model with a low-vision adapted screen and a Full Hi-Definition reading/distance camera that rotates both vertically and horizontally.
See our list of Top 10 Low Vision Aids for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Financing Is Available for low vision optical devices!
New England Low Vision and Blindness’ convenient Peace of Mind financing options makes these products affordable with a low monthly payment. In addition, our Peace of Mind program means everything is included in your affordable monthly payment, designed to eliminate any worry or concern.
Here’s what is included in your low monthly payment?
- Easy Monthly Payments: Our easy-to-understand monthly payment plan allows you to own the latest technology to help you live independently and enhance your life!
- Delivery & Set-Up: We drive to your location to deliver, set up, and provide you with instructions on your new technology. Premium White Glove service guaranteed.
- Training & Tips: Schedule a meeting at your home, work or school, so you can be trained in the actual environment where you are using the technology.
- Troubleshoot & Service: If we can’t solve on the phone, we drive to you and take care of everything – logistics and shipping with the manufacturer, providing a loaner unit, etc.
How Can We Help You Or A Loved One
Mr. Magnifier: If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Macular Degeneration, our Mr. Magnifier handheld magnifiers are the perfect 1st Step for anyone with Macular Degeneration! Here’s a link to very helpful information, including a free Magnification Guide – https://nelowvision.com/mr-magnifier-lp/
Free Low Vision Guide: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Macular Degeneration, we have created this 12-section Low Vision Guide – a free resource to help you or loved one who has been diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. <Click here to download a PDF of the entire report.>
Technology: We offer the latest and most advanced low vision and blindness technology supported by world-class personal service. We have nearly 100% of all major electronic low vision, blindness, and software products. Our complimentary, no-obligation demonstration on any of our products will make sure our clients are getting the right electronic low vision devices for their specific eye conditions. Let our experts help you find affordable low vision devices from low vision glasses and stand magnifiers, to video magnifiers and handheld magnifiers.
Our low vision specialists will help you find the best low vision aids for your visual impairment needs.
Training: Low Vision technology rehabilitation training services for people with low vision and blindness. We go to our clients – home, school, or business – training where they need it – from caring assistive technology professionals.
Smart Home: Our Smart Home services can help design a solution to help our visually impaired clients or their loved ones remain independent by using the many features of a Smart Home. <Click here to learn more.>
Bring Hope: We Bring Hope to people who are blind or visually impaired through the many products and services we offer.
Learn more about our Bring Hope services
Convenience: Our two(2) state-of-the-art technology showrooms are a wonderful resource, showcasing a variety of leading electronic low vision magnifiers and blindness products. Our clients schedule an appointment with one of our Technology Specialists who can help you find the right technology, training, and care solution. If our client cannot come to us, our staff can even drive out and bring our Vision Store to them, for a no-obligation product demonstration.
To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one, contact a Technology Specialist at New England Low Vision and Blindness today. You can call our toll-free number 888-211-6933 or email us at info@nelowvision.com and we will be happy to help.