Macular Degeneration

I enjoyed watching the Richard simulation video. It helped me to understand how an interview should flow using the COPM. It was also very helpful to see how to incorporate other models into an interview to help the interviewer develop a broader understanding of the client’s areas of needs and concerns. Viewing this video also helped me open my mind into who may need help. I teach a self-contained classroom. I think of individuals such as my children needing AT devices, and individuals with other disabilities. I rarely think of older individuals such as those who develop things such as Macular Degeneration or those who have had a stroke.

For Richard, I found two articles. The first artcle was Breakthrough in adaptive reading technology opens new doors for millions with impaired vision (http://www.closingthegap.com/lib/pdf/2005/Dec-Jan05/Spotlights/myReader.pdf). This article discussed a product: myReader. This device is light and transportable and can be used to aide in reading. The individual using the product places the reading materials in front of them, and the programs my reader to the text size and color they want. Another device I read about was an electronic magnifier called the PRIMER. It works with any television set. The device is hooked up to the TV and materials that he individual wants to read are then shown on the screen. This device was mentioned in the article Electronic Magnifier (http://www.closingthegap.com/lib/pdf/2002/April-May02/ElectronicMagnifier.pdf).
Both of these devices may be helpful to Richard. Reading was one area that he wanted technologies to enhance in his life.