Mrs. Ruiz

Tips for a Low Vision Friendly Home

 Maximize amount of remaining vision by increasing contrast  Magnification  Increase illumination  White walls/Dark doors  Organization  Grouping  Labeling Raised paint High-markers Rubber bands Folding money

Room Lighting  Take advantage of sunlight  Re-arrange furniture to avoid glare  Vertical blinds or sheer curtain can reduce glare  Add light to hallways  Track lighting  Install lights in the closet, cupboards and stairwells.

Task Lighting  Small tasks lights with a gooseneck for detailed oriented needs.  Position light between eyes and the work you are doing.  Consider multiple tasks lights throughout the home. Kitchen for reading recipes Measuring ingredients

Organization  Make sure everything has a place and is always put back in its place  Label various products in large black print on a white label  Label all toxic items  Label clothing with tags indicating their color.  Organize belongings into groups.

Front Door Area  Keep keys in the same order  Use touch to help locate keyhole. Place index finger of one hand beside the keyhole and guide the key in to place with other hand.  Mark porch steps with paint or bright tape  Use clothes pin to clip shoes, boot and gloves together in pairs

The Living Room  Re-arrange furniture to avoid obstacles  Avoid area rugs  Create contrast with color Place contrasting color pillows on sofas and chairs to help identify places to sit  Use dark colored switch plates  Use oval or round coffee tables  Secure electrical cords against the walls

Dining Area  Use solid color table cloth to reduce glare  Create contrast with dishes and plate settings  Keep a task lamp where you always sit

The Kitchen  Should be bright and glare free  Keep cupboards organized and everything labeled.  Use packaged mixes for easier preparation.  Use an audible liquid level guide for pouring liquids.  Use stick on raise dots for buttons and dials