4 Reading Aids For Seniors

Reading Aids:
Gadgets to Help Seniors Read

One of the most popular pastimes for older Americans is reading. But, for those who have low vision or physical challenges, like arthritis, reading can become difficult or impossible. Here are four gadgets that can help seniors overcome their visual and physical limitations so they can continue to read.

1. Reading Lights
   There are various types of reading lights, such as clip-on book lights that automatically light up when the head is raised, then instantly shut off when lowered. There’s also a helper that’s a slender pane of optical-quality plexiglass that sits directly on the page and bathes it in a cool, crisp white reading light — without scattering the light on the page. Then there’s what’s called a crescent lamp. This lamp does the work of two very different kinds of light, and both of them fully dimmable. The larger crescent shines warm ambient light through its shade of alabaster glass. The smaller crescent focuses bright, sharp, halogen-powered light directly on the reading matter. The larger crescent is stationary; the smaller one rotates, and the head moves, too, so the senior reader can precisely position its beam. The two dimmers operate independently of each other, giving a broad range of lighting possibilities.
2. Reading Magnifiers
   Reading magnifiers are a convenient way to increase the size of the written word. Some come with fluorescent lighting as well as magnifying capability. Others are full-page magnifiers — about 9.5 inches by 10.5 inches in size — that cover much more of the page. They’re made from an optical grade acrylic that’s 1/16-inch thick, rigid like glass, and will not bend or distort the image. These magnifiers are easy to take along when traveling or reading outside the home.
3. Book Holders
   There are a variety of pillow book holders that one can place on their lap. Some come with integral bookmark props that hold the book at the perfect angle for comfortable reading anywhere. Another option is the adjustable book stand. It stands on the floor and holds the book at a comfortable angle and keeps it open to the page being read.
4. Large Print Publications
   Many periodical publications offer large type editions. The New York Times Large Type Weekly, for example, was developed especially for people with low vision. The large type weekly offers a select package of stories from the past week’s papers and crossword puzzle, printed in 16-point type, about twice the size of the regular type size. The Reader’s Digest Large Print edition offers a monthly large print crossword puzzle, extra-large type, bigger photos and illustrations printed on special non-glare paper.

To locate any of these products for purchase, visit your local book store or search for them online via google.com or amazon.com.

Alternatives for Seniors is a print and online directory that specifically caters to the housing and personal care concerns of senior citizens and their families. Call our Senior Specialists at (888) WE-ASSIST (888-932-7747) or visit the Alternatives for Seniors website to begin searching for the perfect home for you or your loved ones.

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BLOG Date: Thursday, March 10, 2016
Writer: Ryan Allen