‘Why do they make the print on packages so difficult to read these days?’
Good question: Even people with good eye sight often struggle to read instructions on packages when these are printed in tiny pale print on a non-contrasting background. What does this teach us about how we can adapt the environment for people with a visual impairment?
Bolder – Using thick pens and stationary with thicker line-width can help. The RNIB has a range of stationary products, such as pens, diaries and calanders with bold, large black-on-white print: https://shop.rnib.org.uk/collections/books-and-stationery
Bigger – We can make things bigger by increasing their size, for example keyboard stickers with large letters, large print books, large dial clocks and watches, large knitting needles with thick wool. We can also move closer to the item, for example when watching TV. Alternatively, we can use magnification in the form of magnifying software, magnifying glasses or electronic readers. It is recommended that magnifying glasses are individually prescribed as part of a low vision assessment.
Brighter – A direct task light and even lighting in the stairs and hall improve task performance and safety. Avoid looking directly into a light source.
