Electronic Magnifiers

In my low vision practice I try to prescribe low vision devices that are convenient for people to use. If possible I prescribe magnification in eye glasses so the person will be able to have both hands free for writing, holding a book, etc. Both telescopic lenses for distance vision and microscopic lenses for reading can be mounted in eye glass frames. That allows the person to easily take them along when shopping, driving, at church or the theater or for other activities.

Many people benefit from video magnifiers (reading machines) which project the pages of a book or paper onto a screen like a television set. These machines are wonderful but are large and definately not portable.

New smaller electronic video magnifiers are now available which are easily carried in pocket or purse and provide more magnification than can be put into low vision reading glasses.

I have had experience in my practice with a new small video magnifier called a Pebble as well as a somewhat larger device, the Amigo. Both offer several different magnifications, various contrast and color options as well as the ablilty to take a temporary picture of something that you may want to study more closely. These easily used devices have proven helpful to several of my patients.

Depending upon the patient's level of vision loss, their needs and goals I often show them how the Pebble or Amigo might help them. While most of my patients do well with low vision glasses some find that these video devices meet their needs very nicely.