Lockdown help for veterans
Veterans with sight loss are keeping connected during lockdown thanks to “godsend” devices featuring specialist vision impairment software.
Tech-savvy National Service veteran, David Weir (86) of Bathgate, has been using his Synapptic smartphone and tablet to keep in touch with family and friends, sort out groceries and find entertainment while staying at home.
David has eye condition macular degeneration and struggles to use standard screens and keypads due to his low vision.
The “life- changing” devices with Synapptic software feature in-built audio and magnification properties, enabling him to send texts, emails and browse the internet.
David was one of the first veterans to receive a Synapptic smartphone from sight loss charity Scottish War Blinded in 2017. He was introduced to Synapptic technology at the charity’s Linburn Centre in Wilkieston, which is currently closed in line with the Scottish Government’s coronavirus guidance.
David said: “Having this digital knowledge has made a tremendous difference at this difficult time. Thanks to my Synapptic smartphone I’m able to text my family when I’m in need of groceries. I can write down my shopping list on the notepad feature on my tablet and I’ve been emailing it to my family.
It can also read messages out loud to me and I can dictate replies.”
David says digital skills can help to fend off feelings of loneliness – something many Scottish War Blinded veterans with sight loss say they have experienced prior to lockdown.
He said: “Without the introduction I had to all this technology at the Linburn Centre before the lockdown I wouldn’t be doing all this. I think without my phone and tablet and the support of Scottish War Blinded things could feel quite isolating.”
Scottish War Blinded provide tailored digital training and Synapptic devices to individuals wishing to learn new digital skills as part of their free support for veterans with sight loss across Scotland. In 2019, the youngest veteran to receive a Synapptic device from the charity was 21 years old. The oldest was 99.
Scottish War Blinded staff are currently supporting all its veterans across Scotland remotely – they are in touch with each individual regularly via telephone and email to ensure help is in place and to keep spirits high throughout the coronavirus crisis.
David said: “I’m getting a phone call twice a week for a general conversation from one of the Linburn Centre Officers, which means a lot when you are restricted to staying at home. If any Scottish War Blinded members across the country are in need of help they can give the charity a call.”
Rebecca Barr, director of services, Scottish War Blinded, said: “Our veterans need us now more than ever. Our centre staff, outreach workers and rehabilitation team are in touch with each and every person we support via telephone and email, working hard remotely to make sure they know they are not alone and are getting the help they need.”
For more information call 0800 035 6409 or get in touch online at www. scottishwarblinded.org.