Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology and LHON
There is an extensive variety of assistive technology available for people with low vision, and the options continue to increase. With adequate magnification, such as with a CCTV, many of those with LHON vision can read enlarged text using their remaining peripheral vision. Voiceover settings in cell phones, and computer software such as ZoomText, JAWS, and Fusion, as well as the built-in accessibility features of other products, are used by many.
The Hadley Technology Workshops Series offers free online education.
These Facebook groups are a good resource:
For those using Apple products, their Accessibility Support team is at: 877-204-3930.
Access to Sighted Support
There are several services that can be utilized with your phone or smart glasses that can connect you to a sighted supporter to assist with daily tasks. Here are two examples.
Specialized Eyewear
Many people seek specialized eyewear to enhance their remaining vision. These products tend to be very expensive. Each person’s vision is different and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to try out each product to determine what is most effective, and to consider if it will truly be useful in daily life given its size and weight. Additionally, it is important to wait until your LHON vision has stabilized before making an expensive purchase as it may cease to be effective for you if your vision continues to worsen.
IrisVision Live may provide sufficient field of vision to see distant objects; the Inspire model likely will not.
Patriot ViewPoint provides wearable Samsung virtual reality technology with a large field of view.
eSight Eyewear has a small field of vision that does not work well for most with LHON vision.
A different approach doesn’t rely on remaining vision. Instead, a small camera and speakers are embedded in standard glasses. AI is used to describe what’s in front of the user.
Ray-Ban Meta Glasses provide helpful utility to those with reduced vision by allowing them to perform tasks that typically require using a phone hands-free. You can also use your glasses to connect with the Be My Eyes network to get assistance from a sighted volunteer.
​
EchoVision Glasses are designed with the blind, for the blind. EchoVision empowers individuals to access visual information effortlessly and live life hands-free. EchoVision allows you to call your favorite remote assistance like an Aira agent or Be My Eyes volunteers hands-free.
Funding Options
In the U.S., most insurance companies do not cover Assistive Technology equipment, although some Flexible Spending Accounts may. An adult with an open case with their state’s Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) may be provided some of this equipment and associated training as part of the “rehabilitation” process, though it takes time to go through that process. If employed the employer may pay for such items. If a Veteran, the VA may provide the items at no cost.
If the vision loss occurs under age 18, then the parents’ income is considered when determining need. Some local agencies supporting the blind will loan equipment while awaiting the DOR. Students in school may be provided access to the technology needed to succeed in school and for college students there might be a student disability center with equipment available for use. Community groups such as the Lions Club may offer grants. The Association of Blind Citizens (ABC) offers an Assistive Technology Fund.
Often, used equipment can be found at prices far lower than the full price. Sometimes, family and friends wish to donate money to help purchase needed equipment using programs such as GoFundMe.
