Talking technology helps show the way
FOR 27-year-old Johannah White, who is legally blind, advances in technology have enhanced her independence.
Ms White was diagnosed with the rare Wolfram syndrome at 15 and is one of only 12 people living with the genetic disorder across Australia and New Zealand.
When she relocated to Geelong in December, it was Vision Australia that made the transition easier.
“They went through the house and helped with what light globes to get because there’s certain coloured ones that help you see and they checked the place for safety issues, like big steps that I could fall down,” she said.
After five years in her old residence, it was a big decision for Ms White to move to an unfamiliar house and neighbourhood, but the experience was made more exciting by technology that allowed her to be involved in the moving process.
“I have a talking tape measure that meant I could do things around the house and measure to make sure things would fit in different spaces, like when buying a new couch,” she said.
Talking technology, including a verbal thermometer, alarm and calendar, has been a game changer for Ms White.
Vision Australia will showcase its life-changing services and technology at a Geelong expo on Monday. The event is aimed at people who are blind or have low vision, and their friends, family and carers.
Experts in occupational therapy, recreation, employment, assistive technology and mobility will be there as well as the National Disability Insurance Scheme, My Aged Care and Vision Australia’s Seeing Eye Dogs.
The day will also include a virtual reality experience, which allows a sighted people to experience what a person with common eye conditions can see, and how changes to lighting and high contrast furnishings can make a home more accessible. The Vision Australia Geelong expo will be held at Vision Australia, 79 High St, Belmont, from noon to 6pm on Monday.