ScripTalk: Text to Speech for Medication Labels
Join us to learn about how ScripTalk technology translates medication labels into speech and where you can find a participating pharmacy.
Hadley
ScripTalk: Text to Speech for Medication Labels
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 safely managing medication with options from En-Vision America. And joining us are Monica Buboltz, rehabilitation teacher for blind and visually impaired and director of marketing for En-Vision America, Jenna Reed. Welcome to the show, both of you.
Monica Buboltz: Good morning, everyone.
Ricky Enger: It is so good to have you both, and we're talking about a subject that is actually a favorite among our audience, partly because it's an incredibly important topic. That is, how do we manage medication safely and effectively, and most importantly, accessibly. So, just being able to do that independently in a way that works for you. It's something that people often ask about, and so just being able to present those options to people is going to be a great time and very informative with both of you.
So again, so happy to have you. Before we get started, why don't we just take a minute to let you both introduce yourselves and talk a little bit about who you are and what you do. Monica let's start with you.
Monica Buboltz: Yes, good morning everyone. My name is Monica Buboltz and I live in Minnesota, and right now it's a beautiful wintertime here. I have worked in the medical field for over forty some years, retired from there, but I continued my own business, which is rehabilitation teacher for people with vision and blindness. And I'm very passionate about it because I've lived with blindness my whole life.
I do have some remaining vision, but I do relate to the folks that I work with very well because I get it and it's a struggle every day, but there's always something worse out there. So, there's nothing in life you can't do, as my braille teacher said, except maybe drive a car. And I was able to do that for a short time. So that's my story and I'm sticking to it, and what we're talking about today is very important subject to me. So, thank you for having me.
Ricky Enger: Fantastic, Monica. Thank you. And Jenna, you are in a slightly warmer climate than Monica, I think. Tell us a bit about who you are and what you do with En-Vision America.
Jenna Reed: Hi Ricky. Thank you so much for having me and Monica on today.
I am with En-Vision America. I'm a director of marketing. We are in Palmetto, Florida, so the West Coast or the Gulf Coast of Florida.
Ricky Enger: So, let's jump into, I guess letting people know what is available for medication management. I think it's difficult when you are not able to check out what's on the printed label, and maybe you've never been able to do that, or maybe you have vision loss. And so, you used to be able to just pick up the bottle and see what's on it, but now you can't. I think that there really isn't a one size fits all approach because some people don't like technology, some people don't know braille. Some people still can see things in large print. So, I guess I'm wondering what are the options that are available from En-Vision America, Jenna?
Jenna Reed: Sure. We have a lot of options available. We want to cover the gamut. Basically, at our core, we want to make the information on medication labels, visual and in the large print if needed or audible. We also work in dual language labels.
And then for people who are taking the controlled substance safety labels, we have an offering for that as well. So, our most popular offering or our flagship which a lot of people know about is our talking prescription labels. Those are ScripTalk. They're very easy to use. They're free at thousands of pharmacies throughout the US. Real quick, basically the pharmacist puts a small circular tag, usually on the bottom of your prescription bottle. And then you can either use a little device, I liken it to an old school portable CD player, you set it down and you just push a simple button, it reads it out loud. Or you can use your cell phone to go ahead and have that read out loud audibly.
And again, there's no charge for this. If you need the device, we ship it free. You keep it as long as you need it. We just ask you return it to us whenever you're done with it. Another option that we offer for people who do have some usable vision is large print labels. Those are in a booklet style, so they're securely attached to that prescription bottle. Just like ScripTalk, it has your doctor's name, your dosage, your instructions, your warnings, your refill, and all that good stuff. And then for those individuals who maybe English isn't their first language, we offer dual language labels, which again is a booklet style that's attached. It has both English and then one of twenty-five different languages we can translate into. And then of course we do braille. It is a contracted braille, so it's more of a cheat sheet as to what's in that medication.
A lot of people will get ScripTalk in conjunction with that because they want to hear all that information out loud then, which the braille is only again, a cheat sheet. And then for those who are on the stronger medications, we have the controlled substance safety labels, which again follows our format. It's a booklet style that's attached to that bottle. And then the cool thing about that one is it has a QR code on it that you can scan. It just drives home some of those risks associated with that medication, like taking it at nighttime before bed, taking it with food, those kinds of things. Just to help you be a little bit safer because some of those... There's a lot of risks, more of your opioids and things like that that would be associated with that. So, I think that covers the highlights.
Ricky Enger: Absolutely. And it sounds like there are options really for everyone, whether you're into technology, whether you want to have it read out to you. I love the fact that if you're getting braille, you can also kind of supplement that with, "I want to just have a quick read of what this medication is, and I can do that in braille, but if I want that extra information, it's available in another way." So, Monica, you are low vision yourself, and you also work with people who are blind or have low vision. I'm wondering, what did you do before ScripTalk was available and was there ever a time where either you or maybe somebody that you know, that you work with had a situation where having that information on the label was essential, but you didn't have access to it, so you're kind of in an unsafe situation?
Monica Buboltz: Well, the population that I mostly work with are seniors. Seniors do not always have smartphones. Seniors are not always willing to make changes in their lifestyle. But for me to introduce them to ScripTalk because I was at a convention and that was where I got hands-on to various different type of label readers.
And I chose En-Vision America because to me it was the simplest and probably the most cost-effective way because the others were something that was actually physically attached to a bottle that would probably cost a pharmacy more, and then they would hesitate to move forward with it. Because when I saw this, I thought, yes, this is awesome. This will work for people. And my seniors don't need a smartphone if they don't have one. It's just... It's so easy. But the biggest drawing point for me, for my consumers was it was free.
I love to introduce people to resources that are free. And ScripTalk is a free service, and I think that is the most important thing. And there are clients that I've had that have had their own systems, and clearly, when they show me, it's like, "Oh, this is dangerous.” This is very dangerous depending upon... They depend upon the pill shape and color of the pill. Medication changes rapidly, and you cannot depend upon those kind of resources to get by in life, that this is your right medication for your heart or whatever it may be.
Jenna Reed: That's a good point, Monica. I know when I go to the doctor, a lot of times I'm on one generic and they switch me. My pharmacist switches me to another generic, and it's a different looking pill. It feels different in my hands so it's kind of scary.
Monica Buboltz: No, you cannot depend upon that. I got to say I'm a senior myself. You're kind of stuck in your ways, and this is how it is. No, it is not how it is. Using a device like this, reading the whole thing on your bottle. Then I have the person that will say to me, "Oh, but my husband helps me. Oh, my daughter comes over weekly and fills my thing."
If your husband has to go to the nursing home, you are still in your own home and your daughter is on a cruise, who is going to help you? Your neighbor maybe can't see either or hear or whatever it may be. You have to have plan B set in place. Plan B is this. It's a label reader that's easy to use. Turn it on, put the bottle on top, it's going to tell you everything on that whole bottle. It can't get simpler than that. Or use your smartphone if you have one, but it is just so easy and it's free. That's the two selling points for me.
Ricky Enger: And do people listen to that? When you talk about this, I guess for both of you, I know that some people are really resistant to change. Like you said earlier, Monica, people get set in their ways and they're thinking, "Well, if I just squint really hard, I can still see what's on the bottle. Or if I just get used to the shape of the pill, I will be just fine or what have you." So are there things that you can say to kind of talk them through that resistance for whatever reason they don't want to get this, even if it's free. Are there things that you can say to them that tend to work really well in convincing them, "You know, maybe this isn't going to be so bad?"
Monica Buboltz: I have a lot of tactics, but mostly I just show them. I just show them it and they can see for themselves. They can be hands on, they can feel it, they can hear it. The volume is very good. So, for hearing impaired, which a lot of times goes along with vision impairment, I just show them. "Hey, now isn't this simple?" Because if Johnny is gone for the night, he's working, and you got this prescription delivered to you and you are sick. You're not feeling well, you cannot remember how many you were supposed to take now. Do you want to just take a handful? I don't think so. You want to take as directed, so put it on your little thing here and it'll tell you exactly how many to take right now. And you don't have to depend on anyone.
And it's available. You don't have to use it every day, but it's there. It's available.
Ricky Enger: So, what about the logistics of all of this? What do people need to do to get started? And Jenna, I’ll direct that one to you. People may have their pharmacy that they currently go to, and that pharmacy may not know a single thing about En-Vision America or ScripTalk or any of it. So, what do people do to get the ball rolling?
Jenna Reed: The easiest thing folks can do once they hear about this, and they decide that they want accessible labels is just to directly give us a call at En-Vision America. Our phone number is +1 800-890-1180. We have a wonderful patient care advocate team that works the phones, business hours all week long. We do the work behind the scenes. We find out what your pharmacy is, and we can see if it's available at that pharmacy. If it is not, we will definitely talk to that pharmacy and we will educate them and we will do our best to bring them on board. We can also recommend a pharmacy that's near you.
If for some reason your pharmacy doesn't offer it, there's usually another pharmacy in your community that does. For example, we're in all Walmarts across the retail counter. All you have to do is go in and ask for it. Now, if they don't know, remember, Walmart is a big company and not every retail counter has it until somebody's asked for it, so they don't realize that they can offer it to you. Again, call us. We know the corporate side, we talk behind the scenes to them, and we'll help get you set up. Most of the big mail orders do it. I know Express Scripts does, Optum Rx, Kaiser Permanente. A lot of the grocery stores, Hy-Vee, Meijer, Publix, if you're in the south and Florida, Rite Aid, Sam's Club, CVS has a spoken RX version, which I know you have talked about as well. Wegmans. It's also in all the veteran affairs throughout the country as well. So that one is available too.
Basically, what happens is we get you set up at your pharmacy and then they'll get your information, and they'll flag you as a ScripTalk user. And then they send us a simple form if you want the device. We don't have access to any of your prescriptions or your medical information, but we're going to follow up with you. We will get your information and then we'll ship out this free device for you that you can have as long as you need it. And then we just follow up with you periodically. I think it's once every six months. And then once you're set up, we'll also follow up with you just to make sure everything's going smoothly so if there's any issues, we always want to hear about it. We're here to make this as simple as possible. And the other thing I can note too is if you are tech-savvy, you can go to our website, En-VisionAmerica.com, scroll to the very bottom of that homepage, and there's a pharmacy lookup.
It'll automatically know your zip code, and it can pull up within a 10, 15, 25-mile radius, and it'll show you all the pharmacies around you that do offer it.
Ricky Enger: That's excellent. I think the best part of that is that it sounds like if there are roadblocks, sometimes pharmacies don't know things or they're overworked and understaffed and it can be problematic to keep calling and calling and going, "Where's my ScripTalk?" It sounds like all of those things are really handled behind the scenes. So, the patient gets things started, and then after that, it's a conversation between En-Vision America and the pharmacy. And eventually you get your device, or you get your app and right there you have accessible medication. Sometimes it feels interminable going back and forth with pharmacies and bureaucracy and such. So, it's good to see that that is not an issue.
Jenna Reed: We do our best to make it as easy as possible.
Ricky Enger: Absolutely. Is there anything that either of you would say to somebody who's thinking about contacting En-Vision America right now, or they're thinking about doing this, but they're still kind of on the fence?
Monica Buboltz: Yes, I do have a good thought on this one. I always say, don't wait for tomorrow, so you want to be prepared. You want to be prepared in case your eyes are not intact that day. Your environment makes a huge difference of how you see from day to day. Be prepared, have this as your plan B, because you don't want to wait till tomorrow and tomorrow you can't read it.
Ricky Enger: Certainly. Thanks so much for that, Monica. Jenna, any final thoughts from you that you'd leave the listeners with before we go?
Jenna Reed: So, anything that we can do to help, even if you just have questions and you're on the fence, please just give us a call and we'll talk you through the options. And if you're not ready, you're not ready.
We're not going to make you do anything you don't want to want to do, but we do want to talk to you about what's available and what we can do to help you just be a little bit more safe and independent at home.
Monica Buboltz: And it actually is a win-win situation. So, if there's ever any hesitation, it's out there, it's available, take advantage of it. There's not a lot of things free in the world, and this is one of them.
Ricky Enger: Well, thank you both so much for stopping by and sharing this information with us and just sharing your passion for making sure that people have what they need to be as independent as they can be. We will have information in the show notes about how to get in touch with En-Vision America. So, check that out. And thank you both again for stopping by and thank you all so much for listening.
Monica Buboltz: Thank you for having us.
Jenna Reed: Thank you. We appreciate you and your audience.
Ricky Enger: 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.
All Episodes
-
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 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 64
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.
-
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.