Low Vision Aids

Vision Improvement Using Objects in Contrasting Colors

Aug 18, 2009 Judith Wylie

Get enhanced vision by working with products in sharply different colors. Find tools, cosmetics and the TV remote easily, and spill less. Centers offer low vision help.

Whatever the task, people who struggle to see clearly due to visual problems can make them easier by thinking ahead and buying or choosing objects in contrasting shades or colors. With a little planning, every situation can be made easier. Even people with normal vision will find it easier to locate items or use them in dim light. These suggestions come from the Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired at Palo Alto and Santa Cruz, CA.

Seeing Better in The Kitchen By Choosing Colors That Contrast and Pop

Colored glasses are easier to see than clear ones. Choose brightly tinted plastic glasses
Choose a set of plastic measuring cups in different bright colors so it is easier to find the right measure.
For dripless eating, put light foods such as rice on a dark plate, and dark foods such as spinach on a light plate.
Buy and use a cutting board in a color that contrasts with the counter. For a dark counter, use a white board, and vice versa. Some low vision centers sell cutting boards that are black on one side and white on the other. Cut light foods such as breads on a dark board, and dark foods such as meats on a light one.
Drink dark beverages such as coffee from a white or light mug. This will make it easier to see how full the cup is, and can prevent overfilling and spills.

Organizing the Bath for Ease of Finding Soap, Toothpaste

Use a different color bathtub mat than the tub's surface
Choose a bathroom rug that contrasts with the floor color.
Use a different colored toothpaste from the bristles on the toothbrush
Place a contrasting color of soap in the soap dish.
Use bright plastic containers in different shades for different types of tools or sundries: one for makeup, another for skin care items such as moisturizers, one for accessories such as razors and nail scissors,

Choosing or Marking Items to See Easily Around the House and Office

Mark a wireless computer mouse with a bright piece of red or yellow tape
Wrap tape around the TV remote control that contrasts with your couch or chair upholstery
Choose a rug in a different color from the floor material in each room, especially for throw rugs.
On the bottom step of a set of stairs, use a a different color surface or tread.

Anyone with diminished vision can get help with daily activities by consulting with a low vision center, located in many towns and communities. Services include evaluations, sale of special equipment such as contrasting cutting boards and coaching on helpful tips and strategies for living with limited vision.

The copyright of the article Low Vision Aids in Seniors' Health/Medicare is owned by Judith Wylie. Permission to republish Low Vision Aids in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

White bristles, green toothpaste