Hadley and NEI Launch Cooking Workshops in Spanish
Hadley has partnered with the National Eye Institute (NEI) to offer a Spanish-language version of our popular cooking workshop series. Devina Fan, director of the National Eye Health Education Program at NEI, joins the podcast to talk more about this new initiative, NEI’s expanding Spanish content, and the importance of connecting Hispanic and Latino communities to important vision resources.
Hadley Presents
Hadley and NEI Launch Cooking Workshops in Spanish
Presented by Ricky Enger
Ricky Enger: Welcome to Hadley Presents. I'm your host, Ricky Enger, inviting you to sit back, relax, and enjoy a conversation with the experts. In this episode, we discuss information and services available for blind and low vision Spanish speakers. And our guests are Hadley's Chief Program Officer, Ed Haines, and Director of the National Eye Health Education Program, Devina Fan. Welcome to the show.
Ed Haines: Thanks, Ricky.
Devina Fan: Thanks, Ricky.
Ricky Enger: Awesome. I am really excited about today's topic, and I know that a lot of fantastic information is going to be shared, so I'm anxious to jump right into it. Before we do that though, let's just do a couple of quick intros and that way we all know who everyone is and what they do, and we'll get started. Ed, you've been on the program before, so let's just get a quick intro from you for people who don't know your voice or what you do at Hadley.
Ed Haines: Sure. Thanks, Ricky. My name is Ed Haines and I'm the chief program officer at Hadley, and we have wanted to offer our content in Spanish for a long, long time. So, I'm super excited to be talking about this partnership with the National Eye Institute. This is going to be a great conversation.
Ricky Enger: Oh, I so agree. I'm really looking forward to it. Devina, tell us a bit about yourself and what you do with the National Eye Institute.
Devina Fan: I'm the director of the National Eye Health Education Program, which we call NEHEP at the National Eye Institute, NEI. And so NEHEP educates professionals and the public about the importance of eye health, and we focus on the importance of early detection and treatment for eye diseases, the benefits of vision rehabilitation, and populations at high risk of eye diseases and vision loss.
Ricky Enger: Gotcha. And I think that's one of the biggest pieces when somebody's experiencing vision loss, is that they're searching for information. What's available? How do I learn new skills? Are there ways that I can prevent my vision from getting worse? All of those things. And so, I'm really happy to be able to talk about that process for our Spanish-speaking population. So, with that, why don't we jump right in? Ed, I know you have some great questions, so let's do it.
Ed Haines: Sure. Thanks, Ricky. Just for context, Devina, I wonder if you could just tell us a bit about vision impairment in the Hispanic community in the United States. Why is it important to focus on this population and why is this important to the National Eye Institute?
Devina Fan: This is absolutely an important issue for us at the National Eye Institute. The Hispanic and Latino community in the US has some of the highest rates of vision loss and blindness caused by eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. And since diabetes is relatively common in the Hispanic and Latino community, it's important to learn about how you can help yourself, your family, your friends, neighbors, patients live the healthiest life possible. So, people who may not know that they have diabetes or whose diabetes isn't well controlled, can have complications like vision and eye issues, blood circulation in the feet, and other complications. But the good news is that people with diabetes can control their blood sugar with eating healthy foods, being physically active, and taking prescription medication. So, controlling blood sugar and addressing diabetes is the first step to preventing vision loss. Seeing an eye doctor regularly is an important next step as well.
People with vision impairment can live full independent lives. Vision rehabilitation can teach you, your loved one, or your patient, the skills to continue to do the things you need to do, you want to do, and enjoy doing. And so NEI's mission is to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research. NEI is committed to fostering diversity, equity, inclusiveness, and accessibility in all our activities. And so NEHEP's planning group members and NEHEP's network of partner organizations are key people NEI collaborates with to ensure we provide culturally appropriate, linguistically appropriate, and accessible information to the public. So as part of this work, we think it's important to educate the Hispanic and Latino community on the importance of getting comprehensive dilated eye exams, which can help find many of the eye diseases early, which they're often easier to treat and have resources available in a person's preferred language.
Ed Haines: It really sounds like we just haven't done enough to offer the right information in Spanish in general. And I saw on your website a statement that said eight out of 10 members of the Hispanic community who have glaucoma don't know they have it. That's a pretty powerful statement. So, what initiatives has the National Eye Institute put into place to address this obvious need for information and services in Spanish?
Devina Fan: This year, NEI launched more than 130 new web pages in Spanish on NEI's website to better serve the US Hispanic and Latino community. Since Hispanics and Latinos are at higher risk for certain eye conditions, it's important for this community to have access to easy-to-use, actionable, and culturally relevant eye health information. So, we focused on transcreating, which I'll get to in a second, webpages that provide information about a variety of eye diseases and conditions, several of which Hispanics and Latinos disproportionately, like glaucoma and diabetes. Many of the web pages that we transcreated are related to vision impairment as they provide information about conditions that cause vision impairment, vision rehabilitation, and treatments.
Transcreating and transcreation is a relatively new term that blends the words translation and creation. And so, in a nutshell, transcreation is taking a concept in one language like English and recreating it in another language like Spanish. A successfully transcreated message would invoke the same emotions and carries the same message in the translated language as it does in the original language, but in a way that resonates with the audience. The public can access NEI's new Spanish content using a link at the top of NEI's webpages. There's a globe and it says Español at the top.
And so, this year for Healthy Vision Month in May, we focused on both the Black and Hispanic communities, highlighting ways families can team up and learn how to protect their vision. As part of this campaign, NEI created resources in Spanish, including social media messages, graphics, and information about free and low-cost eyecare. NEI plans to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month this year from September 15th to October 15th by highlighting achievements of eye care professionals who identify as Hispanic or Latino or Latina. And by sharing information with Hispanic and Latino communities about eye health to ensure they have the information they need to keep their eyes healthy. And NEI also collaborates with partners such as Hadley to cross-promote Spanish content to help reach Spanish-speaking communities with important eye health information.
Ed Haines: I love that idea of transcreation because if a message isn't culturally relevant, it's not going to come through. Anybody who has Google translated into another language knows that it can come out wrong. So, speaking of universal things that are culturally relevant, let's talk a little bit about Hadley's cooking series. Could you speak a little bit about the need to share practical help and practical tips to people with vision impairments who speak Spanish?
Devina Fan: Since Hispanics and Latinos are at a higher risk for certain eye conditions, this puts them at greater risk for vision impairment. Therefore, we have a need for practical resources like Hadley provides. Hadley and NEI noticed that limited resources exist on vision impairment in Spanish. So NEI and Hadley, we decided to work together to translate one of Hadley's most popular workshops on cooking into Spanish. And NEI prioritizes creating materials in both English and Spanish and partnering with national organizations to maximize our reach to priority audiences.
And Hadley's cooking series has such practical tips for people with vision impairment, and that's what I love about the cooking series. Even with limited vision, the videos teach you how you or a loved one or a patient can prepare meals safely in the kitchen with practical tips like using cutting boards that have color contrast like light and dark, or how to use knives safely, how to put away knives safely, how to use different lighting in your kitchen so that it shines on what you're doing and not in your eyes or producing any glare. How to pour hot water safely and how to use your stove top and oven safely.
And so, eating healthy and being able to continue doing what you love to do, like cooking, will help improve general health for the whole family and teach kids healthy habits early on. Going back to diabetes, controlling diabetes will prevent health complications and improve heart health and other conditions commonly found in people with diabetes. And being able to continue cooking the healthy foods you love to eat in your own kitchen is one way to do that.
Ed Haines: No, that's absolutely right. I mean, when you have vision loss and you haven't developed compensatory skills, that really limits your dietary options. Can't use your stove, now you're limited to your microwave. And if you do have diabetes or heart disease or anything else that requires you to keep track of your diet, it becomes really difficult. So, we did start with the cooking series because it is one of our most popular. I think food is just a universal interest and how to prepare food. So, what are the plans that the NEI has to get the word out about this initiative and make sure those who could most benefit know that the help is here?
Devina Fan: NEI will highlight Hadley's cooking series in Spanish on our social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, during Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th. And after this time as well. We'll also plan to highlight the series in our Eye Health Connection e-newsletter in September, as well as link to it from strategic places on NEI's website. NEI is launching a new Spanish social media strategy, which involves using boosted posts, increasing Spanish post frequency, and working with strategic partners to reach Spanish-speaking audiences. NEI will include Spanish cooking series as part of our resources that NEI promotes throughout the strategy.
Ed Haines: Well, that's wonderful. I'm sure it'll be successful. For me, at least, lastly, is there anything else you'd like to share about this initiative to the Hispanic community?
Devina Fan: NEI is a proud partner with Hadley on this initiative. We are excited that new Spanish language resources are available for people with vision impairment, other care partners, and healthcare professionals to share. We look forward to tracking progress on the series, measuring success over time. This will help us optimize our process and make changes down the road for future Spanish initiatives. And also, just a reminder that there are resources available that can support people with vision impairment. And that's why NEHEP has a vision rehabilitation program area that educates the public and professionals about resources available that will improve quality of life and encourage learning of new skills to encourage you to learn the skills you need to continue to do the things that you love to do, want to do, and need to do. And if you're a healthcare provider, please encourage and connect your patients to these resources and share them with your colleagues to share.
And if we've learned anything in the past several years, living through this global pandemic, it's resilience. How to be resourceful and make use of the best of what we have, including online resources in rural and urban settings, speaking up about the disparities and working collaboratively to find solutions, setting differences aside to unify on a common goal and really the need for kindness to care for one another. There are more virtual support groups now than before the pandemic.
I was first trained as a community health promoter while serving in the Peace Corps and experienced firsthand working alongside other community health promoters from the community to address their community health issues and continued to promote the community health promoter model. So, community health promoters or community health workers or in Spanish, “Promotores de salud”, are trusted members from the community served. Have a deep understanding of the community and are such an important link between health and social services to the community. The trust that they have enables and bridges across communities to help to get access to services and ultimately improves the quality of life for a person.
So, I'd encourage working together with community leaders, like community health workers, “Promotores de salud”, who are already connected to the community, have built trust in the community. Work alongside each other as partners. It's so important in getting the word out. And “Promotores de salud” are frontline public health workers who are from the communities they serve, like I mentioned, partners. And also partner with people with vision impairment, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, parent-teacher associations, and tailor the outreach effort and health education to fit the needs of the community. Who does the community trust? How does the community receive trusted information? What messages resonate with one community might not resonate as much with another, but another message would? And working together with people in the community you're trying to create educational materials or programs for, and bridging resources to people whose native language is other than English or people with vision impairment. And working collaboratively from the beginning.
And so, to just give a quick example. For example, glasses. There's different translations into Spanish for glasses depending on what region, what country you're from. It can be “lentes, gafa, anteojos,” it's just different. Some communities might resonate with one, how you say glasses, and others might say, "Oh, that sounds a little different or funny." It doesn't resonate as much. So that insight is really working together with the people that you are trying to provide resources for or bridge resources. And so, they're able to provide that insight to you.
In closing on that collaborative effort, we look forward to hearing your feedback on the new Spanish resources, how they work for you, your family, your neighbor, your patient, anyone, and adapting it to fit your needs. We invite you to partner with us in creating material that is culturally appropriate, linguistically appropriate, and accessible. And I learned in my time living abroad, working alongside and together with community health promoters, “poco a poco,” which is little by little, “y paso a paso,” and step by step. We can encourage, walk alongside each other and partner with people with vision impairment, who speak another language other than English, that there are resources that can teach you how to continue doing the things you need to do, you want to do, and really love to do. It will just be different.
Ricky Enger: Yeah, absolutely. I'm so happy that you emphasize just that collaborative approach because I think that's so important. We will have links to everything that we've mentioned here in our show notes. And of course, you can contact Hadley as well if you're looking for the link to a website or anything that we've mentioned here. So, if people are hoping to provide feedback, whether it's for Hadley's content that's being shared or for anything that NEHEP is doing for that matter, what's the best way that they can give that feedback?
Devina Fan: Well, we welcome your feedback. We have a general email. It's [email protected]. That's [email protected].
Ricky Enger: Excellent. And people can just send their thoughts into that general mailbox about anything that they want to provide feedback for. And of course, if you are providing feedback to Hadley, you can do that by sending an email to [email protected]. And once again, we will have links to all of these resources in our show notes or you can give us a call and we'll be happy to provide that for you. Any final thoughts before we wrap it up here from either of you?
Devina Fan: Thank you so much for having me on the show and just the opportunity partner. I feel like I talked a lot. And so, I really appreciate you having me on the show.
Ed Haines: Ricky, I'm just really excited that Hadley's involved in this, and I look forward to further involvement in the future.
Ricky Enger: Excellent. Well, thank you both so much for spending a little time with us and I am really, again, so excited to see people accessing these resources, getting that much needed information. Thank you again.
Got something to say? Share your thoughts about this episode of Hadley Presents or make suggestions for future episodes. We'd love to hear from you. Send us an email at [email protected]. That's [email protected], or leave us a message at 847-784-2870. Thanks for listening.
-
Websites
National Eye Health Education Program
National Eye Institute en Español
Email feedback to [email protected]
Hadley cooking series en Español
Email feedback to [email protected]
All Episodes
-
Episode 118
Vision loss can be emotionally overwhelming. In this episode, we chat with a clinical psychologist who is legally blind herself, Dr. Ann Wagner. She shares how learning from and connecting with our emotions can bring about healing and transformation.
-
Episode 117
Preparing for a disaster is important for everyone. But for people with vision loss, it requires some extra thought and planning. In this episode, we share some ideas on how you can prepare.
-
Episode 116
Did you know that veterans are eligible for vision services and equipment through the Veterans Administration even if their vision loss developed many years later and was not as a result of service? Learn more as we chat with a representative of the Hines VA.
-
Episode 115
Voting can be tricky if you've lost some vision. In this episode, we discuss a variety of ways to cast your ballot, no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 114
The Bright Focus Foundation funds research to find cures for macular degeneration and glaucoma, among other conditions. In this episode, we learn about their glaucoma and macular degeneration monthly chats. These sessions with scientists are open to the public and offer insights into the latest breakthroughs, treatments, and promising research on the horizon.
-
Episode 113
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a lot to offer people with vision loss. Whether it's reading menus, describing pictures, or even narrating scenery, AI can make a big difference. This week we chat with Steven Scott, host of the Double Tap podcast, about some of the best AI-powered tools out there… so far. Link to Double Tap on Apple Podcasts.
-
Episode 112
When the doctor says, "there's nothing more I can do for you," what next? Who can help you make the most of your remaining vision and learn how to live more comfortably with vision loss? We break it down for you.
-
Episode 111
This week we talk to Dave Epstein, the visually impaired creator of the All Terrain Cane. He shares about his life with a progressive eye disease and his love of hiking. These two pieces of Dave lead him to develop his unconventional cane.
-
Episode 110
When you have vision loss, scams can be even more challenging to avoid. Listen in as we get some tips and tricks from Veronica Lewis who runs a low vision assistive technology website.
-
Episode 109
Be My Eyes CEO, Mike Buckley, joins us to talk about how this free, smart phone app merges technology and human kindness and how it's now using AI to describe the world in front of you.
-
Episode 108
Recently retired, David Tatel served for decades on the US Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. He also happens to be visually impaired. In this episode, he and Ricky talk about his recently written memoir, a book about his life as a judge, a husband, a father, a grandfather, and how all of these roles intersect with his experience with vision loss.
-
Episode 107
This week we talk smartphone tools and when you might want to use the different options. Jennifer Shimon from the Wisconsin Office for the Blind and Visually Impaired joins Ricky.
-
Episode 106
Sometimes, navigating life with vision loss goes a bit sideways. Things don't always turn out exactly as we've planned, and it can help to just laugh at these strange situations.
We've shared several episodes of listeners' stories, what we're calling vision loss bloopers. Today, Ricky Enger and Doug Walker share some more of these bloopers along with a few of their own.
-
Episode 105
Prevent Blindness' patient advocacy program empowers people facing vision impairment. Patients learn how to promote change with their physicians, their families, drug companies, and even policy makers.
-
Episode 104
Ever thought about getting a guide dog? Listen in as we chat with members Jeff Flodin and Ed McDaniel about their experiences with guide dogs and some common misperceptions.
-
Episode 103
The National Library Service has a free talking book program for anyone in the US with vision loss. Tonia Bickford, an advisor from Michigan's talking books program, joins us to discuss how to get the most out of this free service.
-
Episode 102
This week we learn more about visual hallucinations that sometimes accompany vision loss, a condition called Charles Bonnet syndrome.
-
Episode 101
Sometimes vision loss can make us feel less secure. This week we talk about personal safety with Hadley's Chief Program Officer, Ed Haines.
-
Episode 100
For many living with vision loss, watching TV is less enjoyable as they can't see what's happening on the screen very well anymore.
Audio description fills the void by narrating key visual elements. Listen in as Ricky chats with Hadley member and avid audio description user, Judy Davis. -
Episode 99
Listen in to our conversation with Dr. Mondal, a low vision optometrist and professor at the University of Wisconsin. We chat about what to expect from a visit to a low vision specialist and the kind of help they can offer.
-
Episode 98
Have you listened to Hadley's community-generated audio podcast yet? In this episode, Ricky and Marc Arneson, Hadley's Director of Community, share a few stories from Insights & Sound Bites and discuss how to contribute your own story. Insights & Sound Bites | Hadley
-
Episode 97
Listen in as artist Chloe Duplessis explains how a degenerative eye disease changed, and didn't change, her life and love of art. "I thought art required sight. I was wrong."
-
Episode 96
Dr. Judy Box, a Hadley member living with macular degeneration, shares her tips for managing those important conversations with your eye doctor.
-
Episode 95
In this episode, the Hadley team talks all things gifts. Giving them, getting them, what's on their wish lists, and how vision loss may, or may not, impact these activities.
-
Episode 94
Friendships often change when one has vision loss. Whether it's adaptations to the activities you enjoy together, asking for help, or turning that help down … there are conversations to be had. Let's tune in as two Hadley members, Eugenia DeReu and Tara Perry, share their experiences with what's changed for them — and what's stayed the same.
-
Episode 93
Losing some vision can make for shopping challenges. Here are a few mishaps that Hadley members have run into. Have your own to share? Email us at [email protected]
-
Episode 92
This week we chat with the chief technology officer from Envision as he shares how their free mobile app or camera-enabled glasses can help those with vision loss. It speaks aloud written information, describes surroundings and objects, and even tells you who's nearby.
-
Episode 91
Lots of questions, concerns, and stereotypes connected to use of the white cane. In this episode, we address several of them from past discussions on the topic.
-
Episode 90
Listen in as Hadley's Director of Community, Marc Arneson, chats with Hadley members Bill Massey and Gregory Peterson about their participation in Hadley's new Peer-to-Peer program.
To learn if getting a peer connection is for you, call us at 1-800-323-4238. -
Episode 89
Listen in as we chat with Ed Haines about getting the most out of our magnifiers.
-
Episode 88
Listen in as we chat with animal lovers Debbie Worman and Sheri Robinson about the joys and challenges of caring for a pet when you have vision loss.
-
Episode 87
Listen in as Hadley member, Wendy Spencer Davis, shares why she decided to learn some braille and how it's helping her in everyday life.
-
Episode 86
Ed McDaniel, a psychologist with low vision, joins us to talk about common emotional triggers people with vision loss face and how to recognize and manage them.
-
Episode 85
Jessica Grogan from the American Diabetes Association joins us to talk about managing your blood sugar with vision loss.
-
Episode 84
Tune into our chat with Sarah Clark, a visually impaired marriage and family therapist, as she offers her unique insight into some common family dynamics that often make adjustment more challenging and how to navigate through them successfully.
-
Episode 83
Join us as we chat with Hadley member, Kris, about her experience living with vision loss in a senior community.
-
Episode 82
Listen in as Hadley staff share their real-life bloopers—times when things didn’t quite go as planned.
-
Episode 81
Join us as we take a dive into the features of the BlindShell cell phone.
-
Episode 80
Listen in as Pastor Scott Himel shares his advice for participating in religious services no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 79
Join us to learn about how ScripTalk technology translates medication labels into speech and where you can find a participating pharmacy.
-
Episode 78
Join occupational therapist from Duke Eye Center, Fay Tripp, in a conversation about bioptic glasses—what they are and who can benefit from them.
-
Episode 77
Listen in as we chat with birding expert Freya McGregor who shares her tips on how you can enjoy this hobby, no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 76
Listen in as Hadley's Doug Walker and Ricky Enger chat about how they use GPS in their daily lives. From walking directions to finding items or assisting a driver by navigating a trip, GPS can be a very handy tool.
-
Episode 75
Listen in as we chat with Dave Steele about his life, poetry, and vision loss.
-
Episode 74
Listen in as we discuss some common situations that can make us feel unsafe and share ideas on how to address them. We're joined today by Christy Ray and Ricky Jones of STRIVE4You.Org
-
Episode 73
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for feelings of shame to creep in when we've lost some vision. Join social worker Jeff Flodin and psychologist Ed McDaniel, both visually impaired themselves, as they explore where these feelings come from and how they have worked through these emotions in their own lives.
-
Episode 72
Listen in as Dorrie Rush of OE Magazine shares how she resisted using a white cane for years, the stigma she feared, and the confidence and security she found once it was in her hand.
-
Episode 71
Learn how CVS pharmacy customers throughout the US can access a free service that reads aloud prescription medication information.
-
Episode 70
Join us as we chat with author Hannah Fairbairn about the tips and tricks she has learned to take some of the stress out of holiday get-togethers, no matter your vision.
-
Episode 69
We're joined by the creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel, Sam Seavey. Sam shares his personal journey with vision loss and advice he has for people who are newer to vision loss.
-
Episode 68
Whether you like to read for enjoyment or need to check your mail, reading is an essential part of your day. We're sharing tips and tricks for how to continue reading, the best low-tech and high-tech gadgets, and the benefits of learning braille.
-
Episode 67
Chief Innovation Officer Doug Walker chats with us about the launch of Hadley's newest podcast, Insights & Sound Bites. This new podcast will offer short stories shared by listeners. By tapping into the power of our community, we hope to share ideas, discoveries, and moments of inspiration along the journey through vision loss.
-
Episode 66
Jim Hoxie and Joanna Jones join us to discuss their children’s book, "Grandpa's White Cane." Jim shares how vision loss shaped his life and how he and Joanna, a retired teacher, began instructing children about the importance of white cane awareness and the do's and don'ts for helping people with visual impairment.
-
Episode 65
Blogger and social worker Jeff Flodin talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for helping people led him to blog about his experiences.
-
Episode 63
A change in your vision may make some parts of your job more challenging. But with a bit of help and some new skills, you may be able to stay in your job. Hadley Chief Program Officer Ed Haines and Learning Expert Steve Kelley join the podcast to talk about our new Working with Vision Loss workshops and to share tips for where to find support and how to ask for what you need.
-
Episode 62
Certified accessible travel advocate Melvin Reynolds joins the podcast to share tips for getting the most out of traveling, no matter your level of vision. Melvin gives advice on what to research ahead of a trip, considerations for traveling with a guide dog, and how a certified accessible travel advocate can help.
-
Episode 61
Karen and Dan Leonetti share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples.
-
Episode 60
Rabbi Lenny Sarko joins us to talk about how his vision loss journey led him to create a first-of-its-kind braille Sefer Torah that people around the country can access.
-
Episode 59
Actor and artist Bruce Horak talks about his personal journey with vision loss, how he got interested in painting, and his role in the new television series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
-
Episode 58
CEO of Eschenbach Optik of America Ken Bradley joins the podcast to discuss how Eschenbach has adapted through the pandemic to help people with visual impairment access low vision devices remotely. Through their "Telelowvision" program, you can try out magnification devices from the comfort of your home to find what works best for you before you buy.
-
Episode 57
Scottish radio broadcaster and podcaster Steven Scott loves finding and talking about tech stuff. He's especially fond of apps and gadgets that make life easier for him and others with vision loss.
-
Episode 56
NYT Columnist Frank Bruni returns to the podcast to talk about his new book. Frank describes his personal experiences with vision loss and how, with time, his perspective has grown.
-
Episode 55
IT professional and stand-up comedian Todd Blenkhorn talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for stand-up helped him find and share the humor in daily interactions.
-
Episode 54
In this episode, we're sharing highlights from previous interviews with a glaucoma specialist, retina specialist, and a low vision doctor. Listen in to learn more about common eye conditions, treatments, and what to expect at these specialist appointments.
-
Episode 53
Master Gardener Sue Brasel and Hadley's Chief Program Officer and gardener Ed Haines join us for a chat about gardening, no matter your level of vision or gardening experience. They share tips for how to get started, common challenges, and the many benefits of gardening.
-
Episode 52
We're joined by Carol Mackey, an avid discussion group participant, and co-host Debbie Worman to chat about what Hadley groups are, how to join, and what you can get out of them. With 10 groups on a variety of topics, there's something for everyone. Listen in or chime in – it’s up to you.
-
Episode 51
Bold Blind Beauty blogger Stephanae McCoy joins us for a chat on beauty, style and confidence. Stephanae talks about how vision loss shaped her life, and then shares some of her favorite fashion and beauty tips.
-
Episode 50
Hadley staff share their favorite kitchen gadgets and tips. Whether you're an experienced home chef or a total novice, you're bound to pick up a few ideas that fit your vision needs and make your time in the kitchen more productive (and fun).
-
Episode 49
We sat down with Kim Walker, co-director of research and development at Hadley, and Mark Andrews, one of the Hadley advisors who reviewed our exciting new approach for adults with vision loss to learn braille. From labeling items in your home to identifying buttons on an elevator, braille can be a wonderful tool for everyday use.
-
Episode 48
New York Times Best-Selling Author, Gretchen Rubin, chats about her research on how tapping into different senses can enrich our lives and connect us to each other in surprising ways.
-
Episode 47
Twin sisters Jenelle and Joy join the podcast to share their personal experiences with vision loss and adjusting to it emotionally. While they look identical, their perspectives and journeys differ, highlighting their mission to show that "there is no right way to go blind."
-
Episode 46
Hadley learner Sharon Noseworthy shares tips and tricks for hosting get-togethers of any type or size, no matter your vision. Sharon has always loved the role of hostess and has learned to adjust her approach now that her own vision has declined.
-
Episode 45
We're joined by Teepa Snow, occupational therapist and founder of Positive Approach to Care, to learn more about the challenges of having both vision loss and dementia. Teepa addresses common misconceptions about dementia and shares practical tips for supporting someone with both conditions.
-
Episode 44
We sat down with several Hadley staff members and asked them about their favorite tech tips, apps, and gadgets. Whether you consider yourself a tech expert or novice, the group recommends a variety of high-tech and low-tech options that fit your comfort level and interests.
-
Episode 43
Judge David Tatel has served on the second most powerful court in the country since 1994. He also happens to be blind. Judge Tatel joins us to share his story on building a law career and family while dealing with changing vision, the technology and resources he's found useful, and what made him consider getting a guide dog in recent years.
-
Episode 42
In honor of White Cane Safety Day today, we're joined by Hadley learner Larry Carlson and Orientation and Mobility Specialist Elijah Haines for a conversation about this important tool. Larry shares what made him decide to use a white cane, and Elijah shares tips for what to consider and how to adjust to using a white cane.
-
Episode 41
Supriya Raman, manager of the Disability and Multicultural branches of the TSA, shares tips on traveling among shifting COVID restrictions. Supriya covers what to expect at the airport and what resources are available for people with visual impairment.
-
Episode 40
Photographer Michael Nye chats with us about his latest art exhibit, "My Heart is Not Blind," a collection of photos and audio interviews of people with visual impairment. Through these stories, Michael provides a look into what he calls "our shared humanity and shared fragility," as well as common misunderstandings about blindness.
-
Episode 39
Champion blind golfer Chad NeSmith talks about how vision loss shaped his life, and how he shares his passion for golf with others with vision loss.
-
Episode 38
Doug Walker, Hadley co-director of R&D, and Ed Haines, Hadley Chief Program Officer, chat about the making of Hadley's "Adjusting to Vision Loss" workshop series. The series guides people through the emotional aspects of vision loss. Doug serves as the series' personal storyteller and narrator.
-
Episode 37
In this episode we chat with ophthalmologist Dr. Angela Elam from the University of Michigan. Dr. Elam addresses common questions and concerns, and shares her advice for returning to the eye doctor among shifting COVID restrictions.
-
Episode 36
Dorrie Rush, OE's Chief Content Officer, joins us for a chat about this wonderful online resource chock full of tips for living well with vision loss. You'll find great articles on using tech tools, tips for health and well-being, stories from others living with vision loss, a terrific podcast, and more.
-
Episode 35
Learn about a new service that’s just launched in 2020 called Accessible Pharmacy. Accessible packaging and labeling and personalized customer support all free of charge to the end consumer, and specifically designed for those with vision impairment.
-
Episode 34
Audio Describe the World! That’s the mantra of UniDescription: a free smartphone app that provides audio descriptions and navigation tips for US National Parks and other public places.
-
Episode 33
In this episode, we chat with low vision optometrist Dr. Mark Wilkinson from the University of Iowa. Dr. Wilkinson answers common questions and shares his advice for getting the most out of low vision optometry appointments.
-
Episode 32
Jan and Elgie Dow share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples.
-
Episode 31
Join Hadley advisor Eddie Becerra as he shares about losing his sight from diabetic retinopathy, and how he gained a new perspective on life.
-
Episode 30
Classically trained chef Regina Mitchell shares how vision loss shaped her life. Regina worked her way back into the kitchen and is now helping others cook with confidence, no matter their vision.
-
Episode 29
In this episode we sit down with the director of Well Connected, an organization that offers free, call-in groups for adults over 60 on a wide variety of interest areas: games, music, meditation and more.
-
Episode 28
Support groups can be a great way to connect with others who "get it." Listen in as as low vision support group leaders Lynndah Lahey and Judy Davis describe how their groups are run and what their members get out of them.
-
Episode 27
World-renowned artist John Bramblitt describes how vision loss has shaped his painting and his life.
-
Episode 26
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Tim Murray of the American Society of Retina Specialists. Dr. Murray treats eye diseases such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. He answers common questions and shares his insights into the future of treatments.
-
Episode 25
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jullia Rosdahl, a glaucoma specialist from the Duke Eye Center, and ask her some of the many questions we’ve heard about glaucoma, its risk factors, and how to treat the disease.
-
Episode 24
Hadley learning expert Jessica Smith shares her experience raising a puppy that may eventually become a guide dog. She covers what she’s learned and things to consider if you’d like to volunteer to help out a guide dog school.
-
Episode 23
October 15 is White Cane Safety Day, a day to recognize this important tool that empowers people with visual impairment to travel safely and independently. It also brings attention to the general public to be mindful of visually impaired neighbors, giving them additional consideration and right-of-way when needed. We sat down with Kellee Sanchez, an orientation and mobility specialist, to talk about the history of White Cane Safety Day, and how a white cane can help those with vision loss.
-
Episode 22
Be My Eyes is a free smartphone app that connects visually impaired users with sighted volunteers for help with visual tasks. We sat down with Will Butler from Be My Eyes to hear how the app started, tips for using it, and exciting new features that provide specialized assistance, including with Hadley.
-
Episode 21
Tracy Simon from Eye2Eye peer support program shares her story of vision loss, how her program works, and the benefits of connecting with and supporting each other.
-
Episode 20
Ophthalmologist Dr. Lori Provencher chats with us about how the coronavirus pandemic has changed doctor's visits. She shares tips for staying safe, questions to ask, and what to expect before, during and after your next office visit.
-
Episode 19
Mindfulness expert Tiffany Guske returns to the podcast to share tips and insights on how to cope with life's challenges, such as vision loss or an illness, building resilience and focusing on self-compassion instead of judgment.
-
Episode 18
Author of "When You Can't Believe Your Eyes," Hannah Fairbairn, chats with us about how to communicate in everyday situations when you can't rely on visual cues. Hear Hannah's own story about losing vision, her practical tips on adjusting to vision loss, and advice she has on regaining confidence in social situations.
-
Episode 17
In this episode, we continue the conversation on living during the COVID-19 pandemic with a visual impairment. Listen in as we share some experiences, tips, and strategies for coping during these difficult times.
-
Episode 16
The COVID-19 crisis has brought a wave of change and uncertainty to our everyday lives. Listen in as we share personal experiences, resources and some helpful tips...all from a blind or low vision perspective.
-
Episode 15
Assistive technology experts Ricky Enger and Steve Kelley review BlindShell, a mobile phone built for those with visual impairment. They discuss the basic features, how it differs from a traditional smartphone, and how to decide if it's right for you.
-
Episode 14
This week we sit down with Dan Roberts, author of "The First Year-Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed" and founder of MDSupport website and support group. Hear Dan's own story about being diagnosed with macular degeneration and what prompted him to reach out to others facing similar circumstances.
-
Episode 13
Listen in as we explore the basics of using hand tools with a visual impairment. Gil Johnson, a visually impaired home repair expert, shares tips on everything from measuring, to leveling to hammering.
-
Episode 12
Elections are right around the corner. So we gathered a panel to talk about options for voting no matter your level of vision. Listen in as we explore everything you need to know, from registering to vote to the many ways you can cast your ballot.
-
Episode 11
Ricky sits down with Android Accessibility Product Manager Brian Kemler to discuss what is available on Android phones for those with visual impairment. From adjusting font size and color, or opting to listen with TalkBack instead, the commitment to making these powerful tools more useful to a wider audience is clear.
-
Episode 10
In this episode, we chat with Gil Johnson, an experienced home repair and woodworking enthusiast about things to consider when undertaking home repair with blindness or low vision.
-
Episode 9
Hadley's Debbie Good sits down to continue a conversation with author and visually impaired world traveler Dr. Wendy David. Together they explore a wide variety of helpful hints covering train, plane, and cruise travel as well as practical information on traveling internationally and navigating hotels.
-
Episode 8
In this episode, Ricky Enger chats with Joe Strechay, associate producer on the Apple TV+ series SEE. The show takes place in a future where, after a viral apocalypse, all humans are blind. Joe takes us behind the scenes of the show and his work to help build an inclusive set for the cast and crew, including those with low to no vision. From casting to costumes, scripting to scenery, hear how Joe helped create a science fiction world that strives to be authentic to life with vision loss.
-
Episode 7
Hadley's Debbie Good sits down with travel author Dr. Wendy David in this latest episode. In part one of this two-part interview, Debbie and Wendy discuss tips for traveling with confidence as a blind or low vision person, advice on picking destinations, considerations for traveling alone and in a group, and more!
-
Episode 6
Ricky Enger is joined by Hadley's Debbie Worman and mindfulness expert Tiffany Guske in this latest episode. Debbie and Tiffany talk about what mindfulness is and the specific benefits that mindfulness can offer for those living with vision loss. Tiffany then walks listeners through a short mindfulness exercise.
-
Episode 5
In this episode, Ricky Enger speaks with New York Times columnist Frank Bruni, who shares the story of his sudden vision loss from NAION. Bruni speaks candidly on his adjustment to the change, maintaining a realistic attitude towards his vision loss, and the failure of medical professionals to provide resources after diagnosis.
-
Episode 4
Listen in as we share practical tips on how to keep your handwriting readable. This resource-packed episode includes many useful techniques and solutions to common handwriting challenges. Hadley Learning Expert Jennifer Ottowitz chats with Sue Dalton, Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist.
-
Episode 3
In this episode, Hadley's Steve Kelley speaks with Kendra Farrow, from the National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision, located at Mississippi State. The episode serves as a guide for those new to vision rehabilitation, including determining who is eligible for services, key differences between the medical and social services models, and how to locate services in each state.
-
Episode 2
In this episode, Ricky Enger chats with Microsoft's Jeremy Curry, a Senior Program Manager with the Windows Accessibility team. New vision accessibility features are now available in Windows 10 for low vision and screen reader users.
-
Episode 1
In the inaugural episode of Hadley Presents, Ricky Enger and Jonathan Mosen of Aira chat about the ways in which a visual interpreter service, such as Aira, can be used to gain valuable visual information and enhance travel and leisure activities for blind and low vision users.