Keeping Score and Time

For those of us with a competitive streak, timers and score keeping in a game is a big part of the fun. Well, let’s get cracking with some tips and ideas that can help you keep time, keep score, and keep those games of friendly competition on track, no matter your vision.

Now, to keep track of time, instead of using the timer that came with the game, there are some alternatives that may be easier. One good option is a digital timer with a large display that counts down in minutes or seconds. You can find one with buttons that are easy to see and feel.

Large print kitchen timers with large numbers can help you keep track of minutes. They have a pointer you turn like a dial. Some of them have black numbers against a white background other have white numbers against a black background. And when you need to set a time less than five minutes, you’ll turn the pointer to five minutes then turn it back to the time you need.

Another option is a talking timer. They speak as you set them and often tell you how much time is remaining at certain intervals. They work well for tracking seconds as well as minutes. And some talking clocks have a built-in countdown timer. They're all available online and from companies who specialize in selling devices made specifically for people living with vision loss. Check out the resource section for more information on these options.

You may find that setting an alarm on a low vision or talking clock can be helpful. Just add the total amount of time available to complete the task in the game to the current time and set the alarm. Or, you can set an alarm on a talking watch if you have one. Check out our workshop on telling time for options for watches and clocks. You could also just ask the voice assistant on your smart phone or smart speaker to set a timer for you. And both of these smart options will let you know how much time is remaining if you ask them.

Now, when it comes to keeping score, the first thing you need to do is make sure the area is well lit. Using a desk lamp with an adjustable neck will help here if you have low vision. Just position it so that it’ll give you the light you need without causing glare or casting shadows.

And to keep track of your score, use bold lined paper. You could also make your own scoresheet on the computer and print it in large print. Then, just fill it out as you play. And writing with a bold, felt tipped pen will be easier to see than writing with the pencils that may come with the game. And if you have a handheld or video magnifier, use it to see the scoresheet. They can be helpful to see your handwriting when filling in your score, too.

Another idea is to put the scoresheet on a clipboard to hold it securely while you raise it up to read it or fill it out. Or, you could put the scoresheet on a reading stand, so you don't have to lean over the table to see it.

Now, a low vision or talking calculator will come in handy for entering and adding up your score. And for some games, you can keep score by using buttons, pennies, poker chips, or even pieces of candy as counters. Just have one bowl or bag for your overall supply and a small bowl or cup for your individual score. And for those who know braille or how to use an abacus, that will come in real handy for your score keeping, too.

As always, if you need more information or you’ve got your own tips to share, contact a Hadley Learning Expert. Of course, as with anything new, give yourself time, patience, and practice and you’ll get there.