Bioptics for Driving and More
Join occupational therapist from Duke Eye Center, Fay Tripp, in a conversation about bioptic glasses—what they are and who can benefit from them.
Hadley
Bioptics for Driving and More
Presented by Ricky Enger
Ricky Enger: Welcome to Hadley Presents. I'm your host, Ricky Enger, inviting you to sit back, relax, and enjoy a conversation with the experts. In this episode, occupational therapist Fay Tripp, along with Hadley's Chief Program Officer, Ed Haines, join us to discuss bioptics. Welcome to the show, both of you.
Ed Haines: Thanks, Ricky.
Fay Tripp: Good morning.
Ricky Enger: So glad to have you here, Fay, and always good to have you, Ed. We're talking today about a subject that I know very little about. This is one thing I love about my job is that I get to learn something new every day, and we get to share that with our audience as well.
So, before we get started talking about bioptics, what they are, and what they do, and who can use them, let's just take a moment to get a little information about each of you. Ed, you've been on the show before, but we'll start with you. Of course, you're Hadley's Chief Program Officer and I think you've also had some field experience as well, right?
Ed Haines: Thanks Ricky. Yeah, I'm the Chief Program Officer at Hadley, but I've also worked as a vocational rehab counselor and a vision rehab therapist for many years. So, I am a little familiar with the use of bioptics. It's an important topic, so I'm really glad we're talking about it today and I'm grateful that Fay is willing to speak with us today.
Ricky Enger: Yes, we so appreciate that. Fay, can you tell us a bit about yourself as well?
Fay Tripp: Good morning, and thanks so much for having me chat with you this morning. I am an occupational therapist. I've worked within the Duke system for about 33 years and for about 15 years I've been involved with the Duke Eye Center Vision Rehab group, full-time for the last eight years. Within the realm of occupational therapy, prior to the vision rehab part, I worked in a general rehab setting, and then acute care. I've worked in outpatient in a variety of different settings.
So, with the background, I feel like it's brought a good foundation to the world of vision, because we don't just see the person with their vision limitation. We work with the person. It's a whole person. So, in our setting, especially with our population now of older adults, we typically don't have just the vision issue to address. It's other issues, too.
So, I'm thankful for the background and to be able to pull all of that into the world of vision. I have had an opportunity to work with folks with bioptics over the last eight years, so I hope that I can share some information today that will be helpful.
Ricky Enger: Yeah, it really sounds like you're the ideal person to take this on, not only because you do have experience with bioptics, but also the fact that you are treating patients as whole people, not just a vision problem to be solved. It’s so important and doesn't always happen. Really glad to have you here to talk about bioptics, and I'm looking forward to learning a bit more about them and who might be able to use them.
So, with that, I'm ready to sit back and take it all in. I'm going to throw things over to you, Ed. I know you have a lot of great questions, so let's get right into it.
Ed Haines: Well, thanks, Ricky. Fay, let's just start with the basics. If you could just tell us, what are bioptics? What do they even physically look like and how are they constructed?
Fay Tripp: Sure. So bioptics, it's two parts. Bi is two, and then optics is the glasses part. So bioptic telescope lens system glasses are essentially made up of the two parts of regular glasses as you think of glasses, with a prescription lens. And then the bioptic is either attached, as we would say a frame-mounted system, or a clip-on system.
There are different versions of bioptic glasses, and it really depends on what a person's needs are and how they would be fit or prescribed the glasses. So generally, it's a pair of glasses with the telescope mounted to it in a variety of ways so that it allows a person to use their regular lens just for distance, but then the telescope gives that ability to see much further. So, to expand the world to a much further space than what the regular glasses would.
Ed Haines: Well, that makes sense. And maybe you could explain a little about the experience of using bioptics. I know that folks who are new to vision loss, they're always looking for some kind of optical device that's going to make them see the way they used to see, right? It's just a normal thing. So, do bioptics do that? Are they easy to use? And what do people say they like about them and what are the kinds of things that people don't like about them?
Fay Tripp: Sure. It's not going to revert the vision back to the way it used to be. For example, before the vision loss or the vision impairment, it may not get the vision back to that point. What the telescope glasses do is to magnify. So, if the person's limited in their vision in a way, like a visual field limitation, it's not going to replace that visual field limitation.
What it will do is magnify an image so that it's like bringing it up closer. So, to relate to the use of binoculars. When a person looks through binoculars, everything is up really close. It magnifies. It gets a bigger image on the retina or the back of the eye so that a person can take that information in more easily and then, functionally, they see it better. The telescope glasses will not correct for any visual field limitation, or if there's distortion, or so forth.
So, it's not going to make it like it used to be. But what it does is magnify the image so it's a bigger image on the retina, on the back of the eye, so that the whole visual system can take that information and use it more efficiently. Whether it's easy to use or not, that's depends on the user. Some people catch on very, very quickly, and some people may have more trial time and more practice time to get really comfortable with it.
The practice time is really important. One of the factors that we would consider prior to the optometrist or ophthalmologist prescribing bioptics is to really encourage a trial use. A person would come into the clinic to see if they can actually do it and it's something that they really want to pursue, because it can be a challenge.
When a person is using one of the common types of telescopes, they may be looking through their regular lens glasses, but the telescope's mounted on the top of the frame. So, what they have to do is just transition, or find a target with their eye vision, transitioning from the carrier frame lens, the regular lens, down into the telescope, and to be able to spot their target as they look through the telescope. So, it does require a level of eye control, cognitive ability to learn new skills, and the ability to get comfortable with that movement.
Ed Haines: That's really useful, Fay, because I know in the past, I've had folks who are new to vision loss tell me, "Oh, a friend of mine said you can get these great glasses and they'll just fix everything, and it'll be super easy." It sounds like this is something that does require practice and a certain amount of cards to all be in the right order. So, are there certain types of patients that do better with bioptics, or are there certain types of eye conditions that people have that are more prevalent among bioptic users?
Fay Tripp: Yes. So again, we might look at the whole person and the whole visual functional status. Although there are certain eye disease processes that would be more supportive of using the telescope. Ocular albinism is one of those, whereas, the visual fields are usually full, but it's an acuity limitation. So, when a person uses the telescope, then it magnifies, so it improves their visual acuity at a distance. And they're not hindered by any limitation in the visual field, potentially.
Another common might be Stargardt's. That's a macular degeneration issue, usually an earlier onset limitation. But then again, it depends on the person, because if there's a central vision deficit and there's a significant visual blind spot or a scotoma, that may hinder the person from using a telescope because of the way it has to be mounted.
Certainly, other eye issues, myopia, which would be nearsightedness, or when a person can see close up, but they can't see far away, would be a strong indication for possibly benefiting from the telescope glasses because they can see up close. But then the corrective lenses may not help them see as far away as they might need to for their functional goals, like for employment, or just in the community and seeing those fast-food restaurant menus or the bathroom sign. They want to be able to see those kinds of things from a distance and expand their whole visual world, so they have a little bit more accessibility to real things in life.
One of the primary reasons a person may use a telescope that's mounted to their glasses and be hands-free is for driving or for use when they're in a moving situation, because you can't hold the telescope device when moving or doing other things. Being able to expand their world for that is important, but not everyone might be able to use that. Again, it depends on their visual field, and if their visual field is intact to where the telescope would be mounted. And if their visual acuity is sufficient to allow them to look through the telescope and benefit from that.
Ed Haines: That's really interesting. It sounds like they're not for everyone. And you've mentioned some specific activities that people do use them for. You mentioned looking at menus. I like that idea at a fast-food restaurant, looking up at the menu.
The million-dollar question, of course, is using them for driving. But before we get there to talk about that, are there, just in your experience, are there some specific activities that people really tend to use bioptics for if they're not using them for driving?
Fay Tripp: Yes, there are. In our clinic, many people do come in specifically for that. But my main message to them is that it’s not just for that purpose. The bioptic telescope glasses are for all of your life activities that may require distance vision. And there're different options for the telescope glasses, too, that allow for near vision, for spot-checking. Not to read a book, but for spot-checking details.
So, the main message is to get used to using the telescope glasses in your whole life. When you go shopping and see those overhead signs. When you're traveling and you need to see in an airport the flight numbers or the gate numbers. A common thing is when we're in the community and we see someone at a distance, and it looks like they're waving, but are they waving at me, or are they waving at somebody else, or who is that person? I always think of using the telescope to expand the world to see the detail that's necessary to make a good decision.
So, in the community for real-life functions like shopping, social interactions, on the job. Of course, depending on what the job is, but for being able to interact more with customers, or the presentation that's on the board. In social situations like at church or other kinds of meetings where sitting may not allow to sit up close. The telescope will allow that use of ability to see the pastor, or to see the speaker, or to see the choir members, or to see other signs and information that would be helpful in interacting with the community.
Ed Haines: Well, it sounds like, for the right person, they could really be useful. So, if someone wants to get bioptics does Medicare pay for them? Insurance? How do you actually get them?
Fay Tripp: It is a whole process to get the bioptic telescope glasses. The individual would need to be seen by an eyecare professional, one that can prescribe glasses, because it is an optical device. So, it would be an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. Not every optometrist or ophthalmologist may be familiar with the bioptic telescope ordering or prescribing process. So, it would be helpful to ask those questions before scheduling an appointment.
Typically, it would be someone that's identified as a low-vision specialist or low-vision care provider. That person would be able to prescribe, just like the eye doctor prescribes glasses, there is a prescription. And then, the decision has to be made as to what type of telescope would meet the individual's needs, and how strong the telescope could be to meet the individual's needs. Some states, if the individual's visual acuity has an indication on how strong the telescope should be, and in some states, for example, for driving, the individual would need to have a certain visual acuity through the telescope.
That's where the optometrist's or ophthalmologist's skill comes in, they need to prescribe the certain power of telescope to allow the individual to have that certain visual acuity when looking through the telescope. Elsewise, the person may get a telescope that does not meet the guidelines, so they're limited because they can't pursue their main goal.
Once a person has been prescribed a pair of bioptic telescope glasses and that order has been filled, the telescope user would come in and be fit for the telescope, have the telescope glasses dispensed, and then they would do training. The individual optical shops have different processes for training. I highly suggest that whether it's through the optical shop or through another low-vision center or vision rehab center, make sure that there is training that's completed on how to use the telescope glasses, how to care for it, and how to use it functionally for safety.
You asked about Medicare insurance. It's up to the individual provider what their guidelines are for insurance coverage or if it's an out-of-pocket expense. I can tell you that Medicare itself does not cover bioptic telescope glasses. Most private insurances do not. There are some private vision insurances that can help cover, but that would be up to that individual insurance. And then the insurance subscriber should communicate very clearly about what the coverage options are prior to pursuing the telescope glasses, because it would be very important to know what the options are ahead of time before committing.
There are coverage options in some states for vocational rehab and independent living skill services where the device may be used, for example, on the job with vocational rehab. Some states can cover the telescope glasses for on-the-job performance. Many states, from my understanding, will not cover it for driving purposes because they may not have an option for driver's training, and for the liability circumstances, they may not be able to pursue that.
Ed Haines: We've touched on the topic of bioptic driving and that's what a lot of folks are really interested in. So obviously, it's not easy to get bioptics in the first place. There's a lot of tests and training that needs to take place.
What else has to happen? If you're determined that bioptics are appropriate for driving for you, at least visually, then in short, what has to happen in addition to that to be able to actually obtain a bioptic license? And I know it's different in every state, but just in general.
Fay Tripp: The first step would be for the individual to pursue getting the bioptic telescope glasses. Again, that would be through the optical provider, the optometrist or ophthalmologist. And then generally, based on the state's guidelines, the eyecare specialist should know what the guidelines are and be able to determine if that individual is actually a good candidate and if they will meet the guidelines for driving.
If the person does meet the guidelines for driving in the sense of visual acuity measures and visual field measurements, and the individual demonstrates that they actually can function with the telescope in the clinic and do a trial use, then they could go to the next step to pursue getting the telescope glasses.
Once the telescope glasses are obtained, each state will have their individual guidelines and requirements. It may require specific in-the-clinic training to get used to how to use the telescope glasses safely. Typically, it requires on-the-road driver's training as well. That is where the tricky part comes in because a person may need to have a learner's permit or a driver's license prior to going on the road.
Ed Haines: This is a long process to go through. It's not an instant thing where you walk into a store and you buy a bioptic, and you're back on the road. We mentioned, things are different in every state. I think there's different rules about driving with bioptics in every state too. For instance, in some states you can't drive at night or maybe you're given a trial period. What advice would you give to someone who's heard this podcast and just says, "I'd like to try out bioptic driving." Where should they just start?
Fay Tripp: Yeah, I think a good start is to communicate with a vision rehab or low-vision care provider. A good starting point may be with the state services to find a resource to go to. Although the state services for the blind or visual impairment may not have the answers, they may know someone to refer to ask those questions.
Another service would be, or an option would be to go to the state's DMV or Department of Motor Vehicles website and search out information about the options for using a bioptic telescope. Because again, every state will have their own guidelines for using. The questions to ask would be, "What is the required visual acuity with the carrier frame or best corrected vision? What is the requirement for visual acuity through the telescope? And then, what is the visual field requirement?"
The next set of questions would be. "What's required for using the telescope?" For example, what are the allowable strengths of telescope? Some states require 4x or less. Others will allow up to 6x power telescopes. So, know the specifics for options for the telescope use. And then the requirement for training, which may include the clinical and the behind the wheel. And then a length of time of having the telescope prior to pursuing getting a license.
Another resource specifically for driving would be through the website aded.com is the Association of Driver Educators for Disabled. It's the host for certified driver rehab specialists. And there are specific guidelines on that website for driving with a vision impairment, which includes bioptic telescope information.
There's another website that's helpful to understand the function of the telescope and guidelines for use. Bioptic Driving USA is a good website for an overview. There's also some very good information on the websites for the telescopes themselves. Two main companies would be Ocutech, ocutech.com, and the other is designsforvision.com.
There are two different types of telescopes, and different telescope providers or optical services would cater toward one or the other probably. But those websites can give you some really good guidance on just general information about, "Oh, what looks best for me, or what might I want to pursue? And then what is this local provider going to be able to provide for me?"
Ricky Enger: We will have the links to all of those websites in our show notes. So, if you're listening and frantically trying to write those down, no worries. We'll have those in our resources.
This has been really educational. And as Ed said, not a quick thing that you're going to do, just go in and grab one off the shelf. But it does sound like, for the right person, this could be a life-changing device once you go through the acquisition of it and then all of the training. You can do things that you weren't able to do previously, especially with distance vision. So that's amazing.
Fay and Ed, thank you both so much for stopping by and just letting us know about bioptics. Any final thoughts before we wrap up?
Fay Tripp: I'd just like to say, I really appreciate the opportunity to chat this morning. I do totally agree with what you're saying, Ricky. It can be life-changing for whatever age of life, whether it's a teen or an older adult. And just to expand the visual world is so helpful if they're a good candidate. Although it is a very, quite involved process, it can really maximize a person's function and benefit them in all types of activities. So, it's a good thing to pursue. Again, may not be for everyone, but it's a really good option.
Ed Haines: And thanks, Ricky. This was really an important topic. And many thanks to you, Fay, for sharing your expertise. We really appreciate it.
Ricky Enger: Yes, we really do. Thank you so much for joining us.
Fay Tripp: Oh, thanks for having me. I've enjoyed it.
Ricky Enger: Got something to say? Share your thoughts about this episode of Hadley Presents or make suggestions for future episodes. We'd love to hear from you. Send us an email at podcast@hadley.edu. That's P-O-D-C-A-S-T at hadley.edu. Or leave us a message at (847) 784-2870. Thanks for listening.
All Episodes
-
Episode 105
Prevent Blindness' patient advocacy program empowers people facing vision impairment. Patients learn how to promote change with their physicians, their families, drug companies, and even policy makers.
-
Episode 104
Ever thought about getting a guide dog? Listen in as we chat with members Jeff Flodin and Ed McDaniel about their experiences with guide dogs and some common misperceptions.
-
Episode 103
The National Library Service has a free talking book program for anyone in the US with vision loss. Tonia Bickford, an advisor from Michigan's talking books program, joins us to discuss how to get the most out of this free service.
-
Episode 102
This week we learn more about visual hallucinations that sometimes accompany vision loss, a condition called Charles Bonnet syndrome.
-
Episode 101
Sometimes vision loss can make us feel less secure. This week we talk about personal safety with Hadley's Chief Program Officer, Ed Haines.
-
Episode 100
For many living with vision loss, watching TV is less enjoyable as they can't see what's happening on the screen very well anymore.
Audio description fills the void by narrating key visual elements. Listen in as Ricky chats with Hadley member and avid audio description user, Judy Davis. -
Episode 99
Listen in to our conversation with Dr. Mondal, a low vision optometrist and professor at the University of Wisconsin. We chat about what to expect from a visit to a low vision specialist and the kind of help they can offer.
-
Episode 98
Have you listened to Hadley's community-generated audio podcast yet? In this episode, Ricky and Marc Arneson, Hadley's Director of Community, share a few stories from Insights & Sound Bites and discuss how to contribute your own story. Insights & Sound Bites | Hadley
-
Episode 97
Listen in as artist Chloe Duplessis explains how a degenerative eye disease changed, and didn't change, her life and love of art. "I thought art required sight. I was wrong."
-
Episode 96
Dr. Judy Box, a Hadley member living with macular degeneration, shares her tips for managing those important conversations with your eye doctor.
-
Episode 95
In this episode, the Hadley team talks all things gifts. Giving them, getting them, what's on their wish lists, and how vision loss may, or may not, impact these activities.
-
Episode 94
Friendships often change when one has vision loss. Whether it's adaptations to the activities you enjoy together, asking for help, or turning that help down … there are conversations to be had. Let's tune in as two Hadley members, Eugenia DeReu and Tara Perry, share their experiences with what's changed for them — and what's stayed the same.
-
Episode 93
Losing some vision can make for shopping challenges. Here are a few mishaps that Hadley members have run into. Have your own to share? Email us at podcast@HadleyHelps.org
-
Episode 92
This week we chat with the chief technology officer from Envision as he shares how their free mobile app or camera-enabled glasses can help those with vision loss. It speaks aloud written information, describes surroundings and objects, and even tells you who's nearby.
-
Episode 91
Lots of questions, concerns, and stereotypes connected to use of the white cane. In this episode, we address several of them from past discussions on the topic.
-
Episode 90
Listen in as Hadley's Director of Community, Marc Arneson, chats with Hadley members Bill Massey and Gregory Peterson about their participation in Hadley's new Peer-to-Peer program.
To learn if getting a peer connection is for you, call us at 1-800-323-4238. -
Episode 89
Listen in as we chat with Ed Haines about getting the most out of our magnifiers.
-
Episode 88
Listen in as we chat with animal lovers Debbie Worman and Sheri Robinson about the joys and challenges of caring for a pet when you have vision loss.
-
Episode 87
Listen in as Hadley member, Wendy Spencer Davis, shares why she decided to learn some braille and how it's helping her in everyday life.
-
Episode 86
Ed McDaniel, a psychologist with low vision, joins us to talk about common emotional triggers people with vision loss face and how to recognize and manage them.
-
Episode 85
Jessica Grogan from the American Diabetes Association joins us to talk about managing your blood sugar with vision loss.
-
Episode 84
Tune into our chat with Sarah Clark, a visually impaired marriage and family therapist, as she offers her unique insight into some common family dynamics that often make adjustment more challenging and how to navigate through them successfully.
-
Episode 83
Join us as we chat with Hadley member, Kris, about her experience living with vision loss in a senior community.
-
Episode 82
Listen in as Hadley staff share their real-life bloopers—times when things didn’t quite go as planned.
-
Episode 81
Join us as we take a dive into the features of the BlindShell cell phone.
-
Episode 80
Listen in as Pastor Scott Himel shares his advice for participating in religious services no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 79
Join us to learn about how ScripTalk technology translates medication labels into speech and where you can find a participating pharmacy.
-
Episode 77
Listen in as we chat with birding expert Freya McGregor who shares her tips on how you can enjoy this hobby, no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 76
Listen in as Hadley's Doug Walker and Ricky Enger chat about how they use GPS in their daily lives. From walking directions to finding items or assisting a driver by navigating a trip, GPS can be a very handy tool.
-
Episode 75
Listen in as we chat with Dave Steele about his life, poetry, and vision loss.
-
Episode 74
Listen in as we discuss some common situations that can make us feel unsafe and share ideas on how to address them. We're joined today by Christy Ray and Ricky Jones of STRIVE4You.Org
-
Episode 73
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for feelings of shame to creep in when we've lost some vision. Join social worker Jeff Flodin and psychologist Ed McDaniel, both visually impaired themselves, as they explore where these feelings come from and how they have worked through these emotions in their own lives.
-
Episode 72
Listen in as Dorrie Rush of OE Magazine shares how she resisted using a white cane for years, the stigma she feared, and the confidence and security she found once it was in her hand.
-
Episode 71
Learn how CVS pharmacy customers throughout the US can access a free service that reads aloud prescription medication information.
-
Episode 70
Join us as we chat with author Hannah Fairbairn about the tips and tricks she has learned to take some of the stress out of holiday get-togethers, no matter your vision.
-
Episode 69
We're joined by the creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel, Sam Seavey. Sam shares his personal journey with vision loss and advice he has for people who are newer to vision loss.
-
Episode 68
Whether you like to read for enjoyment or need to check your mail, reading is an essential part of your day. We're sharing tips and tricks for how to continue reading, the best low-tech and high-tech gadgets, and the benefits of learning braille.
-
Episode 67
Chief Innovation Officer Doug Walker chats with us about the launch of Hadley's newest podcast, Insights & Sound Bites. This new podcast will offer short stories shared by listeners. By tapping into the power of our community, we hope to share ideas, discoveries, and moments of inspiration along the journey through vision loss.
-
Episode 66
Jim Hoxie and Joanna Jones join us to discuss their children’s book, "Grandpa's White Cane." Jim shares how vision loss shaped his life and how he and Joanna, a retired teacher, began instructing children about the importance of white cane awareness and the do's and don'ts for helping people with visual impairment.
-
Episode 65
Blogger and social worker Jeff Flodin talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for helping people led him to blog about his experiences.
-
Episode 64
Hadley has partnered with the National Eye Institute (NEI) to offer a Spanish-language version of our popular cooking workshop series. Devina Fan, director of the National Eye Health Education Program at NEI, joins the podcast to talk more about this new initiative, NEI’s expanding Spanish content, and the importance of connecting Hispanic and Latino communities to important vision resources.
-
Episode 63
A change in your vision may make some parts of your job more challenging. But with a bit of help and some new skills, you may be able to stay in your job. Hadley Chief Program Officer Ed Haines and Learning Expert Steve Kelley join the podcast to talk about our new Working with Vision Loss workshops and to share tips for where to find support and how to ask for what you need.
-
Episode 62
Certified accessible travel advocate Melvin Reynolds joins the podcast to share tips for getting the most out of traveling, no matter your level of vision. Melvin gives advice on what to research ahead of a trip, considerations for traveling with a guide dog, and how a certified accessible travel advocate can help.
-
Episode 61
Karen and Dan Leonetti share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples.
-
Episode 60
Rabbi Lenny Sarko joins us to talk about how his vision loss journey led him to create a first-of-its-kind braille Sefer Torah that people around the country can access.
-
Episode 59
Actor and artist Bruce Horak talks about his personal journey with vision loss, how he got interested in painting, and his role in the new television series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
-
Episode 58
CEO of Eschenbach Optik of America Ken Bradley joins the podcast to discuss how Eschenbach has adapted through the pandemic to help people with visual impairment access low vision devices remotely. Through their "Telelowvision" program, you can try out magnification devices from the comfort of your home to find what works best for you before you buy.
-
Episode 57
Scottish radio broadcaster and podcaster Steven Scott loves finding and talking about tech stuff. He's especially fond of apps and gadgets that make life easier for him and others with vision loss.
-
Episode 56
NYT Columnist Frank Bruni returns to the podcast to talk about his new book. Frank describes his personal experiences with vision loss and how, with time, his perspective has grown.
-
Episode 55
IT professional and stand-up comedian Todd Blenkhorn talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for stand-up helped him find and share the humor in daily interactions.
-
Episode 54
In this episode, we're sharing highlights from previous interviews with a glaucoma specialist, retina specialist, and a low vision doctor. Listen in to learn more about common eye conditions, treatments, and what to expect at these specialist appointments.
-
Episode 53
Master Gardener Sue Brasel and Hadley's Chief Program Officer and gardener Ed Haines join us for a chat about gardening, no matter your level of vision or gardening experience. They share tips for how to get started, common challenges, and the many benefits of gardening.
-
Episode 52
We're joined by Carol Mackey, an avid discussion group participant, and co-host Debbie Worman to chat about what Hadley groups are, how to join, and what you can get out of them. With 10 groups on a variety of topics, there's something for everyone. Listen in or chime in – it’s up to you.
-
Episode 51
Bold Blind Beauty blogger Stephanae McCoy joins us for a chat on beauty, style and confidence. Stephanae talks about how vision loss shaped her life, and then shares some of her favorite fashion and beauty tips.
-
Episode 50
Hadley staff share their favorite kitchen gadgets and tips. Whether you're an experienced home chef or a total novice, you're bound to pick up a few ideas that fit your vision needs and make your time in the kitchen more productive (and fun).
-
Episode 49
We sat down with Kim Walker, co-director of research and development at Hadley, and Mark Andrews, one of the Hadley advisors who reviewed our exciting new approach for adults with vision loss to learn braille. From labeling items in your home to identifying buttons on an elevator, braille can be a wonderful tool for everyday use.
-
Episode 48
New York Times Best-Selling Author, Gretchen Rubin, chats about her research on how tapping into different senses can enrich our lives and connect us to each other in surprising ways.
-
Episode 47
Twin sisters Jenelle and Joy join the podcast to share their personal experiences with vision loss and adjusting to it emotionally. While they look identical, their perspectives and journeys differ, highlighting their mission to show that "there is no right way to go blind."
-
Episode 46
Hadley learner Sharon Noseworthy shares tips and tricks for hosting get-togethers of any type or size, no matter your vision. Sharon has always loved the role of hostess and has learned to adjust her approach now that her own vision has declined.
-
Episode 45
We're joined by Teepa Snow, occupational therapist and founder of Positive Approach to Care, to learn more about the challenges of having both vision loss and dementia. Teepa addresses common misconceptions about dementia and shares practical tips for supporting someone with both conditions.
-
Episode 44
We sat down with several Hadley staff members and asked them about their favorite tech tips, apps, and gadgets. Whether you consider yourself a tech expert or novice, the group recommends a variety of high-tech and low-tech options that fit your comfort level and interests.
-
Episode 43
Judge David Tatel has served on the second most powerful court in the country since 1994. He also happens to be blind. Judge Tatel joins us to share his story on building a law career and family while dealing with changing vision, the technology and resources he's found useful, and what made him consider getting a guide dog in recent years.
-
Episode 42
In honor of White Cane Safety Day today, we're joined by Hadley learner Larry Carlson and Orientation and Mobility Specialist Elijah Haines for a conversation about this important tool. Larry shares what made him decide to use a white cane, and Elijah shares tips for what to consider and how to adjust to using a white cane.
-
Episode 41
Supriya Raman, manager of the Disability and Multicultural branches of the TSA, shares tips on traveling among shifting COVID restrictions. Supriya covers what to expect at the airport and what resources are available for people with visual impairment.
-
Episode 40
Photographer Michael Nye chats with us about his latest art exhibit, "My Heart is Not Blind," a collection of photos and audio interviews of people with visual impairment. Through these stories, Michael provides a look into what he calls "our shared humanity and shared fragility," as well as common misunderstandings about blindness.
-
Episode 39
Champion blind golfer Chad NeSmith talks about how vision loss shaped his life, and how he shares his passion for golf with others with vision loss.
-
Episode 38
Doug Walker, Hadley co-director of R&D, and Ed Haines, Hadley Chief Program Officer, chat about the making of Hadley's "Adjusting to Vision Loss" workshop series. The series guides people through the emotional aspects of vision loss. Doug serves as the series' personal storyteller and narrator.
-
Episode 37
In this episode we chat with ophthalmologist Dr. Angela Elam from the University of Michigan. Dr. Elam addresses common questions and concerns, and shares her advice for returning to the eye doctor among shifting COVID restrictions.
-
Episode 36
Dorrie Rush, OE's Chief Content Officer, joins us for a chat about this wonderful online resource chock full of tips for living well with vision loss. You'll find great articles on using tech tools, tips for health and well-being, stories from others living with vision loss, a terrific podcast, and more.
-
Episode 35
Learn about a new service that’s just launched in 2020 called Accessible Pharmacy. Accessible packaging and labeling and personalized customer support all free of charge to the end consumer, and specifically designed for those with vision impairment.
-
Episode 34
Audio Describe the World! That’s the mantra of UniDescription: a free smartphone app that provides audio descriptions and navigation tips for US National Parks and other public places.
-
Episode 33
In this episode, we chat with low vision optometrist Dr. Mark Wilkinson from the University of Iowa. Dr. Wilkinson answers common questions and shares his advice for getting the most out of low vision optometry appointments.
-
Episode 32
Jan and Elgie Dow share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples.
-
Episode 31
Join Hadley advisor Eddie Becerra as he shares about losing his sight from diabetic retinopathy, and how he gained a new perspective on life.
-
Episode 30
Classically trained chef Regina Mitchell shares how vision loss shaped her life. Regina worked her way back into the kitchen and is now helping others cook with confidence, no matter their vision.
-
Episode 29
In this episode we sit down with the director of Well Connected, an organization that offers free, call-in groups for adults over 60 on a wide variety of interest areas: games, music, meditation and more.
-
Episode 28
Support groups can be a great way to connect with others who "get it." Listen in as as low vision support group leaders Lynndah Lahey and Judy Davis describe how their groups are run and what their members get out of them.
-
Episode 27
World-renowned artist John Bramblitt describes how vision loss has shaped his painting and his life.
-
Episode 26
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Tim Murray of the American Society of Retina Specialists. Dr. Murray treats eye diseases such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. He answers common questions and shares his insights into the future of treatments.
-
Episode 25
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jullia Rosdahl, a glaucoma specialist from the Duke Eye Center, and ask her some of the many questions we’ve heard about glaucoma, its risk factors, and how to treat the disease.
-
Episode 24
Hadley learning expert Jessica Smith shares her experience raising a puppy that may eventually become a guide dog. She covers what she’s learned and things to consider if you’d like to volunteer to help out a guide dog school.
-
Episode 23
October 15 is White Cane Safety Day, a day to recognize this important tool that empowers people with visual impairment to travel safely and independently. It also brings attention to the general public to be mindful of visually impaired neighbors, giving them additional consideration and right-of-way when needed. We sat down with Kellee Sanchez, an orientation and mobility specialist, to talk about the history of White Cane Safety Day, and how a white cane can help those with vision loss.
-
Episode 22
Be My Eyes is a free smartphone app that connects visually impaired users with sighted volunteers for help with visual tasks. We sat down with Will Butler from Be My Eyes to hear how the app started, tips for using it, and exciting new features that provide specialized assistance, including with Hadley.
-
Episode 21
Tracy Simon from Eye2Eye peer support program shares her story of vision loss, how her program works, and the benefits of connecting with and supporting each other.
-
Episode 20
Ophthalmologist Dr. Lori Provencher chats with us about how the coronavirus pandemic has changed doctor's visits. She shares tips for staying safe, questions to ask, and what to expect before, during and after your next office visit.
-
Episode 19
Mindfulness expert Tiffany Guske returns to the podcast to share tips and insights on how to cope with life's challenges, such as vision loss or an illness, building resilience and focusing on self-compassion instead of judgment.
-
Episode 18
Author of "When You Can't Believe Your Eyes," Hannah Fairbairn, chats with us about how to communicate in everyday situations when you can't rely on visual cues. Hear Hannah's own story about losing vision, her practical tips on adjusting to vision loss, and advice she has on regaining confidence in social situations.
-
Episode 17
In this episode, we continue the conversation on living during the COVID-19 pandemic with a visual impairment. Listen in as we share some experiences, tips, and strategies for coping during these difficult times.
-
Episode 16
The COVID-19 crisis has brought a wave of change and uncertainty to our everyday lives. Listen in as we share personal experiences, resources and some helpful tips...all from a blind or low vision perspective.
-
Episode 15
Assistive technology experts Ricky Enger and Steve Kelley review BlindShell, a mobile phone built for those with visual impairment. They discuss the basic features, how it differs from a traditional smartphone, and how to decide if it's right for you.
-
Episode 14
This week we sit down with Dan Roberts, author of "The First Year-Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed" and founder of MDSupport website and support group. Hear Dan's own story about being diagnosed with macular degeneration and what prompted him to reach out to others facing similar circumstances.
-
Episode 13
Listen in as we explore the basics of using hand tools with a visual impairment. Gil Johnson, a visually impaired home repair expert, shares tips on everything from measuring, to leveling to hammering.
-
Episode 12
Elections are right around the corner. So we gathered a panel to talk about options for voting no matter your level of vision. Listen in as we explore everything you need to know, from registering to vote to the many ways you can cast your ballot.
-
Episode 11
Ricky sits down with Android Accessibility Product Manager Brian Kemler to discuss what is available on Android phones for those with visual impairment. From adjusting font size and color, or opting to listen with TalkBack instead, the commitment to making these powerful tools more useful to a wider audience is clear.
-
Episode 10
In this episode, we chat with Gil Johnson, an experienced home repair and woodworking enthusiast about things to consider when undertaking home repair with blindness or low vision.
-
Episode 9
Hadley's Debbie Good sits down to continue a conversation with author and visually impaired world traveler Dr. Wendy David. Together they explore a wide variety of helpful hints covering train, plane, and cruise travel as well as practical information on traveling internationally and navigating hotels.
-
Episode 8
In this episode, Ricky Enger chats with Joe Strechay, associate producer on the Apple TV+ series SEE. The show takes place in a future where, after a viral apocalypse, all humans are blind. Joe takes us behind the scenes of the show and his work to help build an inclusive set for the cast and crew, including those with low to no vision. From casting to costumes, scripting to scenery, hear how Joe helped create a science fiction world that strives to be authentic to life with vision loss.
-
Episode 7
Hadley's Debbie Good sits down with travel author Dr. Wendy David in this latest episode. In part one of this two-part interview, Debbie and Wendy discuss tips for traveling with confidence as a blind or low vision person, advice on picking destinations, considerations for traveling alone and in a group, and more!
-
Episode 6
Ricky Enger is joined by Hadley's Debbie Worman and mindfulness expert Tiffany Guske in this latest episode. Debbie and Tiffany talk about what mindfulness is and the specific benefits that mindfulness can offer for those living with vision loss. Tiffany then walks listeners through a short mindfulness exercise.
-
Episode 5
In this episode, Ricky Enger speaks with New York Times columnist Frank Bruni, who shares the story of his sudden vision loss from NAION. Bruni speaks candidly on his adjustment to the change, maintaining a realistic attitude towards his vision loss, and the failure of medical professionals to provide resources after diagnosis.
-
Episode 4
Listen in as we share practical tips on how to keep your handwriting readable. This resource-packed episode includes many useful techniques and solutions to common handwriting challenges. Hadley Learning Expert Jennifer Ottowitz chats with Sue Dalton, Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist.
-
Episode 3
In this episode, Hadley's Steve Kelley speaks with Kendra Farrow, from the National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision, located at Mississippi State. The episode serves as a guide for those new to vision rehabilitation, including determining who is eligible for services, key differences between the medical and social services models, and how to locate services in each state.
-
Episode 2
In this episode, Ricky Enger chats with Microsoft's Jeremy Curry, a Senior Program Manager with the Windows Accessibility team. New vision accessibility features are now available in Windows 10 for low vision and screen reader users.
-
Episode 1
In the inaugural episode of Hadley Presents, Ricky Enger and Jonathan Mosen of Aira chat about the ways in which a visual interpreter service, such as Aira, can be used to gain valuable visual information and enhance travel and leisure activities for blind and low vision users.