LowVision ALERT
11 online resources for
the visually impaired
by Stephanie Watson
When visual problems pose a serious impediment to reading, many people can
adjust with audio and large-print books, low-vision aids and other assistive devices. In addition,
many online resources can help to meet low-vision
reading needs.
Low Vision Gateway | lowvision.org
Created and run by the Internet Low Vision
Society, the Low Vision Gateway connects
people who have vision issues to the resources
Momentum • Fall.2012 10
Don’t let visual problems keep
you from your favorite books,
newspapers and magazines.
they need to live independently. Each section of
the website, written in easy-to-read large text,
covers a particular area: low-vision aids, visual
rehabilitation, alternative media and libraries for
the blind and visually impaired.
Read How You Want | readhowyouwant.com
When electronic publisher Christopher
Stephen’s sister was diagnosed with MS, the
entrepreneur began working on conversion
technology that would allow his sister to
read her favorite books again. The company
he founded, Read How You Want, offers
print and electronic versions of popular
books in a variety of print sizes and
line spacings to accommodate its
customers’ specific vision needs.
American Foundation for
the Blind | afb.org
This nonprofit organization
is dedicated to promoting
greater independence
for people with vision
loss. The site features
a searchable database of
assistive technologies, ranging
from magnifying lamps to talking
book readers. A monthly online magazine,
AccessWorld, reviews the latest technologies to
help consumers with vision issues make smart
buying decisions.
DANIEL COSGROVE
