Digital devices can enhance independence for people with vision difficulties
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Digital technology has become front and centre in our lives, whether technology is used for a simple phone call, or connecting with friends on social media, or managing our finances. Technology can be convenient and efficient but also frustrating and mysterious, especially if you are experiencing vision difficulties.
If we take banking as an example, new digital services are changing the way Australian's make payments, shifting from in-person to online, a trend that has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT has made it a priority to support people experiencing vision loss make the most of digital technology and remove the frustrations often associated with learning new skills. Collaborating with Good Things Foundation, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT has launched its FREE digital literacy pilot, 'Get online. Get Connected.' to help people experiencing vision loss with:
- Using inbuilt accessibility features on your device to make the most of your remaining vision
- Staying in touch with friends
- Learning how to safely do online banking
- Using apps to make everyday tasks easier
Hear from Alan Edwards, who has vision loss, discuss the significance of technology in his life.
Watch Alan's story here:
"Technology is always challenging," Alan said.
"It is like getting a new pair of glasses. Sometimes you try them on, and when you first try them on, they just feel so uncomfortable. But once you persevere with it, suddenly it just becomes better. The key to success is reaching out, get that support, get that guidance, and challenge yourself."
Mirné le Roux, business program manager at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, expressed excitement about the program.
"With this pilot program, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is really leading change in the vision impairment space. Our goal is to create a world without barriers to access and improve the actuality of truly inclusive communities," Mirne said.
"Offering a pilot such as this allows us to gain valuable feedback to ensure we deliver a solution that is truly innovative and we welcome more people living with vision impairment to get involved, helping us shape the future for low vision."
During the pilot, participants can attend free unlimited digital skills training sessions until they are confident using their digital devices. Here are just some of the modules on offer:
- Making your devices easier to use
- Staying safe online
- Connecting with others through technology
- Accessing resources to enhance your everyday life
- Safer management of passwords and logins
Training sessions are designed to offer choice, making digital learning enjoyable and accessible, with participants joining like-minded peers to discover how to do more with their devices.
Get Online. Get Connected. is designed for people experiencing any level of vision loss.
Click here to participate in the free digital skills pilot program.
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