There are plenty of moments when hearing information could be easier than trying to read it. Whether you need to jot down notes at a doctor’s appointment, identify a can or bottle quickly, check the time, or make a calculation, talking devices can give you information out loud, making it more immediate for your task.
Check out these 5 types of talking devices, along with some examples.
How can I take notes quickly with vision loss?
Say you’re at a doctor’s appointment, in a meeting, or on the phone. When you need to remember a lot of information, a talking voice recorder can capture those important details without your having to write it all down.
Many talking voice recorders feature audio instructions, clear interfaces, large buttons, and hours of recording. You can also use them for reminders, shopping lists, phone numbers, and more.
Talking Voice Recorders to Consider
How can I identify items quickly with vision loss?
Have you ever spent time trying to tell cans or bottles apart? One way to quickly identify items with vision loss is with audio labels.
An audio labeler lets you record a brief message on a special label, and the same device is used to read it back. People use audio labels on food packages, medicine, files, and more. And some newer audio labelers can also play music and audiobooks.
To see how an audio labeler works, check out Hadley’s free workshop Labels: Audio Labels.
Talking Audio Labelers to Consider
What about telling time quickly with vision loss?
Sometimes you just want to know what time it is without trying to find it on your phone. Talking clocks and watches can tell you with the press of a button.
Many talking clocks offer simple setup with audio support. They can provide an alarm and audio reminders, and you can find male or female voices.
Talking watches offer you the same instant time when you’re out and about.
Talking Clocks & Watches to Consider
How can I keep track of time while doing tasks with vision loss?
Cooking, baking, exercising, laundry, taking medications—many tasks involve keeping track of time. A talking timer lets you confirm your timing without looking at the display. During setup, these timers say the hours and minutes aloud.
Talking Timer to Consider
How can I make calculations quicker with vision loss?
Whether for balancing a checkbook, figuring out a restaurant tip, or computing a discount, a talking calculator can make working with numbers a little smoother. Calculators that speak aloud are available in different sizes and styles. Many models feature large keys, a headphone jack for privacy, or even the time and date by audio, too.
Talking Calculators to Consider
Need Help Choosing a Talking Device?
Sometimes it would be nice to try out a device before deciding what works for you. A low vision specialist or vision rehabilitation professional may be able to help you with this. To find a professional or talk to one of Hadley’s practical specialists, call us at 800-323-4238. We’re here to help.
Connect with Others
One way folks stay connected around technology and tools for vision loss is by joining these free Hadley discussion groups, which meet online once a month:
What talking device have you found especially helpful for living with vision loss? Please share it with us.
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