The RT News
Newsletter of Division 11
December 2005
AER Rehabilitation Teaching Division
Holiday Goodies by Sara Bennett, CVRT
TOYS
- Abilitations: 800-850-8603; www.abilitations.com
- The Dragonfly Toy Co., Inc.: 800-308-2208; www.dragonflytoys.com
- Enabling Devices, a division of Toys for Special Children, Inc.: 800-832-8697; www.enablingdevices.com
- Exceptional Teaching Aids, Inc.: 800-549-6999; www.exceptionalteaching.com
- Guide to Toys for Children who are Blind or Visually Impaired: 212-675-1141; www.toy-tia.org
- Toys ‘R’ Us Guide for Differently Abled Kids: 800-869-7787--connects to general store information
- Descriptive Video Service: 800-333-1203; http://main.wgbh.org/wgbh/pages/mag/ Choose “services and products”.
- Audio Vision Canada: 866-966-7667—to request a catalogue.
- Bavisoft: www.bavisoft.com/
- BSC Games: www.bscgames.com/
- ESP Softworks: www.espsoftworks.com/
- GMA Games: www.gmagames.com/
- PCS Games: www.pcsgames.net/
- Seedlings: www.seedlings.org
- Children’s Book Club: www.nbp.org
- I Can See Books: 800-987-1231; www.braillebookstore.com
Blindskills, Inc., publisher of Dialogue magazine, has released a new cookbook entitled “Connie’s Kitchen: A Compilation of Recipes and Tips from the Pages of Dialogue”. It consists of recipes from Connie Weadon--cook, teacher and former columnist of Dialogue magazine. Recipes include healthful main and side dishes, desserts, and those for the microwave. It is available for sale in Braille and large print from Blindskills, Inc.: phone: 800-860-4224; website: www.blindskills.com
PRODUCTS FOR DAILY LIVING
- SeniorShops: 800-894-9549; www.seniorshops.com
- Dynamic Living: 888-940-0605; www.dynamic-living.com
- Gold Violin: 877-648-8400; www.goldviolin.com
ACCESS BERMUDA 2005
“Even the Blind have a Vision !” by Dr. Lynne Luxton
I had the terrific experience of being the guest Workshop Presenter for Vision Rehabilitation Therapy services at workshops throughout the island of Bermuda. And, yes, it is as beautiful an island as you can imagine! And the Bermudians were very gracious to us, the presenters. And, they do have many mopeds and drive on the “wrong” side of the road! The roads are narrow, twisty, and very few sidewalks are available outside of the city environs.
Bermuda, a democratic country within the United Kingdom, is a small island 600 miles west of North Carolina. It has a population of approximately 60,000. The National Office for Seniors and the Physically Challenged conducted a national survey and estimated that over 200 people were legally blind. The National Office knew just a limited number of these people.
Bermuda does not have any rehabilitation services for people with visual impairments. The National Office anticipated that blind and visually impaired people and/or their families would attend these workshops to learn basic skills and techniques of adaptations for daily living skills. I also had some basic adaptive devices to demonstrate that were donated by Independent Living Aids, Inc. Due to the lack of services, the participants had never used talking clock keychains, or needle threaders, or writing guides. The material covered in the workshops included: eating skills, writing skills, stovetop safety, cleaning skills, use of the adaptive devices, sighted guide, basic cane technique demonstration, and lots of Q&A’s! The workshops were quite lively and everyone had opportunities to talk, practice some skills, try out the devices, and share with each other. I also conducted a workshop for the occupational and physical therapists at the local hospital to give them the basics of working with blind patients.
There is an association for the blind in Bermuda which has an interesting history. It was started about 100 years ago and the participants wove designer baskets for the multitude of tourist hotels on Bermuda. Each hotel had a different basket design. There are now fewer than a dozen basket weavers left. Over the years, many blind people have come to the USA or Canada for eye care. A couple of the gentlemen at the workshop had also received rehab. training at the Industrial Home for the Blind in Brooklyn, NY (as Helen Keller Services f/t Blind, was then known), courtesy of the Lions Clubs. It was fascinating to talk with basket weavers in Bermuda who had learned mobility on New York City subways!
In addition, to the workshops which I conducted, the National Office had invited Mr. Duncan Holmes, a blind piano musician from Texas to offer entertainment. Duncan and his guide dog Lucky were the hit of the week, appearing on the radio, the t-v, and at many of the events. He is a motivational singer and musician, much appreciated by all who heard him. He and the one older woman on Bermuda who has a guide dog have been friends for years; and they finally were able to meet each other. We attended an opening at the national library, similar to the NLS services. We had the great pleasure of being guests on an evening yacht sail through the Harbor. We attended presentations by the leading ophthalmologists of Bermuda. We attended a motivational speech by the Honorable Floyd Morris, a blind senator from the island of Jamaica. And at the end of the week, we were guests of the Sandys Lions Club at a Tea in their garden.
For me, this was a “working vacation.” I did not go as an official representative of my agency; I was invited to do the workshops because I had met the vision teacher from Bermuda at conferences. It is interesting how “small” our field of services is that conference connections can, in later years, lead to a terrific experience such as this. The United States is rich in resources for blind and visually impaired people, it is rewarding to share this information whenever or wherever the opportunity comes along.
NOTE: Lynne Luxton works at Helen Keller Services for the Blind in Brooklyn, NY and has been a very active member of the RT Division, including past chair over the years.
Your Executive Team: 2004-2006
Nancy Paskin, CVRT, CLVT, CHAIR nansam@peoplepc.com
Mary Beth Harrison, CVRT, CHAIR-ELECT marybeth.harrison@med.va.gov
Susan M. Dalton, CVRT, Secretary/Treasurer smdtvp@joltmail.net
RT MARKET PLACE
COMMUTER MUG: Beautiful stainless steel commuter mug. Features the motto “Qualiter Signum” (Whatever Works) in black script. Also features the RT logo and Website address. $10.00
BASEBALL CAP: Stonewashed green cotton cap. Features the RT logo with the motto “Qualiter Signum” (Whatever Works) in black script. Adjustable sizing strap. SALE $5.00
Please add $3.50 for shipping and handling of all orders. Make checks payable to AER Rehabilitation Teaching Division.
Due to items selling out, please also include an email or phone number so we can notify you if a change in our supply may affect your order.
Send your orders to: Nancy Paskin, 3771 ValleyView St., Mohegan Lake, NY 10547 or email: nansam@peoplepc.com
APH AD…AUDIO FEEDBACK FOR DAILY LIVING
THE SUGAR BLUES…THE VRT’S ROLE IN BLOOD GLUCOSE MONITORING by Debra Sokol-McKay, CVRT, CLVT, CDE, OTR
Introduction
Blood glucose monitoring is a tool by which persons with diabetes can determine the effectiveness of medications (including insulin), diet and exercise or physical activity on blood glucose levels. It allows treatment to be adjusted to enable an individual to achieve and maintain normal or near normal blood glucose levels. Blood glucose monitoring can help to prevent and detect hypoglycemia and avoid severe hypoglycemia. Treatment can also be modified in response to events and changes in a person’s daily life including illness, travel, or pregnancy.
The treating physician determines the frequency and timing of blood glucose monitoring based upon the client’s needs and goals. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) indicates that individuals with type 1 diabetes should self-monitor blood glucose (SMBG) 3 or more times daily. Persons with type 2 diabetes who are treated with insulin should perform blood glucose monitoring at least daily and up to 3-4 times per day when treated with multiple daily injections. Decisions regarding blood glucose monitoring when an individual’s diabetes is controlled by oral medications or diet needs to be individually determined by the physician. In addition, special circumstances such as exercise, hypoglycemia, illness, insulin pump use, pregnancy, travel, night shift work, erratic work and play may require increased frequency of blood glucose monitoring.
Recommended target ranges for blood glucose control according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA)
- Preprandial (pre-meal) …… 80-120 mg/dL (whole blood); 90-130 mg/dL (plasma glucose)
- Postprandial (1-2 hours after start of meal)………..less than 180 mg/dL (plasma glucose)
- These goals apply to most persons with diabetes however each person needs to have specific goals set by their physician that takes into account age, comorbid diseases, or other unusual circumstances or conditions.
A blood glucose monitor is a device that measures glucose in the blood by a chemical change or an electric current that is produced when blood comes in contact with the test site of the strip.
Equipment needed and daily procedure for blood glucose monitor use:
Equipment: blood glucose monitor, bottle/foil packet of test strips, cotton ball/ tissue, lancing device, lancet, record sheet/log book, alcohol swab/wipe (optional), disposal container for lancet. The general procedure for blood glucose monitoring includes:
- Wash hands with warm water and soap
- Put lancet into lancing device
- Turn monitor on (many meters now turn on with strip insertion)
- Insert test strip
- Press lancing device against fingertip and obtain blood sample.
- Apply blood sample to test site on strip
- Read result on display and record
- Keeping track of expiration date of test strips and glucose control solution
- Coding or calibrating monitor
- Setting time
- Performing glucose control solution check
- Accessing monitor memory
- Cleaning/maintenance of monitor including battery replacement
- Accessing instruction manual or resource person when in need of assistance
- Performed by: inserting a code key/calibration strip or visually inputting the number from the test strip container into the monitor; some meters now have automatic calibration
- Purpose: to match the monitor to the strips
- When: when opening new bottle or box of test strips
- Performed by: using control solution versus blood during glucose testing
- Purpose: to insure the monitoring procedure is being done correctly and that the monitor and strips are working properly.
- When: Opening new bottle/box of test strips, bottle of test strips left open, meter dropped, blood glucose result does not agree with way person feels, to check person’s performance, repeated readings are higher or lower than expected, to check performance of monitor and test strip.
- Consideration: control solutions expire 2-3 months after opening or upon expiration date.
The following tools, adaptations and techniques focus on use of visual display monitors, a number of which have large displays. Before providing instruction insure that basic training in use of a blood glucose monitor has been provided to the client by a healthcare professional such as a diabetes educator, nurse or physician. Refer to the monitor’s instruction manual for information about the features and proper use of that specific model. Collaborate with the local diabetes educator.
Remember: Any adaptations or techniques chosen must be effective when the user’s vision is at it’s lowest. Fluctuating vision may occur when the user needs most to test blood glucose levels, when blood glucose is very low or very high.
The following low vision adaptations and techniques can be implemented:
- Incorporate task lighting; explore proper positioning due to potential for glare from monitor display.
- Use a solid colored, contrasting tray to organize equipment and avoid clutter. Choose a tray that contrasts with monitoring equipment, especially smaller items such as test strips and lancets. A restaurant supply store is a good resource for sturdy and economical trays in various sizes and multiple colors.
- Both optical and relative distance magnification can be incorporated.
- Optical devices can be used for many aspects of the blood glucose monitoring process, from reading the expiration date and code number on the test strip container to seeing smaller details on the monitor display, as when setting the time. A double ended clamp or a stand can be created to prop the magnifier upright to allow hands free use. This set up may be helpful to assist in the location and placement of the blood sample on the test strip. Magnification in spectacle format may also be explored.
- Consider using relative distance magnification by bringing the eye closer to the monitor or the monitor and/or strip nearer to the eye. Many monitors can now be picked up for use, and in fact; they are designed to be brought to the blood sample. Use a contrasting background color that enables the user to see the test strip or test site easier.
- Attend to tactile/visual features on strips and monitors to aid in locating and identifying key parts. Check the user’s guide to see if the strip is “touchable,” that it allows tactile contact with the test site and exploration of the test strip with the fingertip. Noting features such as raised or recessed areas, notches or cutouts, smooth or textured surfaces, or round or square ends can aid in properly orienting and inserting the test strip or locating the test site.
- Use high contrast or tactile markings on buttons, test strip ports, and battery compartments/doors and test strip holders. Use marking materials that are durable and washable such as spot n’ line, fabric paint, or bump or touch dots, due to potential contact with blood.
- Lancing devices may be marked to enhance their use, if tactual features are not sufficient. The trigger button and depth setting feature may be marked and high contrast and tactile markings can also be applied to assist the user in aligning the lancing device and cap during assembly. Should conventional lancing devices continue to prove difficult then single use lancets can be obtained. Single use lancets generally require only removal of a cap and pressing a trigger button, however the cost is greater than conventional lancing devices.
Save the Date
Where: 2006 AER Biennial International Conference
Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, Snowbird Utah
When: July 14, 2006
More information is forthcoming.
It will be an exciting day of presentations, practicums, and networking with professionals in the field of diabetes education.
MY TWO CENTS by Lisa-Anne Mowerson, CVRT
It is therefore my current opinion, that the change in our name has begun that predicted process of extinction. Maybe I have been around too long. Maybe I am tired and need a long break from the profession. On the other hand, maybe I am tired of shouting in the wind with no one to listen. If you will give me a minute, I will explain why I feel this way.
First let me outline the many areas I feel that have been immediately affected by this change that have not been addressed and will need attention at some point in the near future.
- The title of our professional division within AER, is known as “rehabilitation teaching”. It is now necessary to change our bylaws and quite possibly the bylaws of AER to reflect his name change.
- The title of our division newsletter, RT News. Should it also be changed to reflect our new name?
- The domain and website know as www.rehabilitationteaching.org. as well as the many successful links from other websites such as OT websites to this website. Should this domain be changed as well as the content of the website to reflect our name change?
- The titles and descriptions of the seven (this is another issue of concern!) university training programs currently use our prior name of rehabilitation teaching. Most the training programs had been approved by the AER, rehabilitation teaching division and are following the University Personnel Preparation Guidelines for Rehabilitation Teachers. What changes will need to be made by these institutions? Will this have an effect on funding resources? Will federal funding, a primary funder for university programs, be effected?
- The fact that under the recent Medicare legislation seeking approval for the services of vision rehabilitation professional, our profession is named as rehabilitation teaching. This may also affect states that have been in the process of seeking state licensure for vision professionals.
- How about the finally approved standards for Rehabilitation Teaching Assistants? Will these need to be redone and reapproved using new terminology?
- In the past ten years, the profession of rehabilitation teaching has finally been named and described in other vision professional textbooks such as the Foundations of Education, Vol. I, and Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling both published by AFB.
- Then there are minor issues that will need to be rethought such as:
- The RT logo for AER division
- The name of similar professional membership groups such as ASERT and MACRT
- The certification pin given by ACVREP
- The description and title of a number of consumer training programs offered by state and nonprofit agencies.
Although all the concerns and issues I have outlined may be enough to explain my dishearten feelings about the future of “rehabilitation teaching”, there is still a greater worry in this entire affair. It is the lack of interest, input and discussion among us, the rehabilitation teachers! It says a lot about ourselves when asked for input for our name change we came up with over 60 suggestions! It appears WE do not know who we are and worse don’t seem to care what we are called or how we are describe. If we do not have a unified professional identity, how can any other profession or funding source understand who or what we are? Part of me wants to give our profession slack at not being able to rally together before the name change, we are known for being a bit slow to react to change, but HEY, we haven’t respond yet! I mean there has been no discussion on the list services, no articles have been posted or written on the web or in JVIB or RE:View, no mailing campaigns and no formal discussion with the AER board. I bet dollars to donuts that if any other vision profession had to go through such a dramatic change we all would have heard about it in a variety of ways, before during and after.
So you see, it is because of the apathy I find current in the profession that I believe and predict the end of our distinct and historical profession, whatever our name. We can get upset when OT’s do our jobs, or when agency directors train social workers and other workers to do our jobs, but when we can’t provide the needed number of trained professional to do the work, who can really blame them? In addition, why do we only have seven university training programs that struggle to keep their enrollments and funding going year after year when the jobs exist and cannot be filled? Is it because we cannot recruit and attract students when we cannot define and describe our own profession?
It is my hope that I am wrong about my prediction. I want to believe that I am just a bit tired and all the professionals in “rehabilitation teaching” will work to prove me wrong. I mean, we have been providing services for over 100 years, shouldn’t we be able to do it for at least 100 more?
Editor’s Note: Apathy in this Division extends to nominating officers, nominating award recipients, answering survey questions and also to licensing efforts. In the last newsletter less than 1% of members responded to the above listed requests for input….we have over 400 members people!!!!
VRT LISTSERV by Sarah Dietz, CVRT
The list is being hosted through freelists.org. There are two ways to subscribe to the list. You can subscribe through email or through the freelists website.
VIA EMAIL:
To subscribe though email, send a message to visionrehabilitationtherapistrequest@freelists.org and put “subscribe” in the subject field. Nothing needs to go in the body of the message. You will receive an email back, which you need to reply to (you don’t need to add or remove anything in the body of the message).
VIA WEBSITE:
To subscribe through the freelists website go to www.freelists.org Click on the link “find, join or leave a list” (on the left side of the page). Search for visionrehabilitationtherapist, then select the list and enter your email address.
Through the freelists website you will also be able to review archives of the list and change your user settings. If you would like you may choose to receive a digest of the list, or put your email address on vacation.
If you have any trouble signing on to the list you may email the moderator at visionrehabilitationtherapist-moderators@freelists.org or dietz1112@yahoo.com.
Editor’s Note: This list has been up and running since July, but this article was lost in the crash of my old computer and thus did not make the September newsletter. Many thanks to Sarah for pursuing this project and following it to reality.
From the Field:
I go to the local Dollar Store and purchase a photo album, usually 5 x 7, and place index cards where photos should be. One card has the name of the person (in very large, dark print) and the second card would have the telephone number...three digits on one line and 4 digits on the next line. The person can now open up the album and easily see numbers. Some people get 2 or 3 albums for different uses. Its an inexpensive way to organize.
MaryAnn Zelinsky-Cartledge , from ME, There’s a new FREE directory assistance connection that works for any city and state. It also has all residential, government and business listings. You can also be connected directly to the desired number by the service.
The catch is that you are presented with an advertisement before you can request you number. You don’t have to listen to the advertisement.
The phone number for this free assistance is 1-800-373-3411 or 1-800-free411. A taped recording repeats the message and then will state the phone number and connect you, if you stay on the line.
MAKING THE CONNECTION by Sara Bennett, CVRT
Consumer groups vary in structure, mission and focus, but they all generally aim to improve opportunities and experiences for persons who are blind. Some are face-to-face in nature while others utilize electronic communication, such as online discussion groups and email listserves. Whether it’s through advocacy directed towards policy makers, business or the non-profit sector, or through social and recreational activities, these groups provide a vehicle for mentorship, peer support and empowerment; participants learn from each other by sharing ideas, adaptive techniques and coping strategies, as well as resources. Many continue their involvement long-term and become role models for others.
What follows is a sampling of consumer groups and listserves. Some groups offer informal or formal mentoring, sports and recreation, and the publication of magazines and newsletters of interest to persons experiencing vision loss. Here, I have only noted where various message boards and listserves exist; organizations with no note typically offer many of the preceding benefits and have one general listserve.
Some of the groups’ websites provide links to other valuable organizations and resources. A search of blindness-related consumer groups on the internet will come up with more also, and looking at “groups” on major search engines like Yahoo and Google will turn up numerous disability- and blindness-related online groups. Who knows, you might just find something that is perfect for one of your clients.
- Advocates for Sight-Impaired Consumers (ASIC): address: 4231 Louisburg Place, Richmond, BC V7E 5K3; phone: 604-241-7499; email: asic@telus.net; website: www.asic.bc.cx
- Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC): address: 6-1638 Pandosy Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1P8; phone: 1-800-561-4774; email: info@blindcanadians.ca; website: www.blindcanadians.ca
- American Council of the Blind (ACB): address: 1155 15th Street NW, Suite 1004, Washington, DC 20005, USA; phone: (202) 467-5081 (800) 424-8666; email: info@acb.org; website: www.acb.orgg general and special-interest groups/listserves, e.g.: for diabetics, family/friends, students, deaf-blind persons, persons with low vision, guide dog users and veterans; related to information technology and braille.
- American Foundation for the Blind (AFB): website: www.afb.org message boards related to education, employment, technology etc.
- British Computer Association of the Blind: www.bcab.org.uk listserve.
- Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB): address: CCB National Office, 401-396 Cooper St., Ottawa, ON K2P 2H7 Canada; phone: 613.567.0311 877-304-0968; email: ccb@ccbnational.net; website: www.ccbnational.net
- Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB): www.cnib.ca Sky Club discussion group.
- Canadian National Society of the Deaf-Blind: address: 405-422 Willowdale Ave., North York, On M2N 5B1, Canada; email: CNSDB@canada.com; website: www.cnsdb.ca
- Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD): address: 926-294 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba; voice/TTY: 204-947-0303; email: ccd@ccdonline.ca; website: www.ccdonline.ca
- Guide Dog Users of Canada (GDUC): www.gduc.ca
- National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS): address: 4th Level Unicentre, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6 Canada; email: info@neads.ca; website: www.neads.ca
- National Federation of the Blind (NFB): address: 1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD 21230; phone: 410-659-9314; website: www.nfb.org magazines by/for parents, students, diabetics, and of general interest; groups/listserves for parents of blind children, for diabetics, guide dog users, seniors, students.
- Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB): www.rnib.org.uk groups/listserves for parents, job seekers and students, and related to mobility, employment etc.
- Software Reviews: www.accesswatch.info/review.php information on how well mainstream programs work with assistive technology, tips on making favourite programs work even better, or to write and submit own review.
- VIP Consumer: www.vipconsumer.com consumer reviews and discussion from a vision-impaired perspective.
- Visually Impaired Computer Users: http://maelstrom.stjohns.edu/archives/vicug-l.html listserve.
FOR THE INTERNET-CHALLENGED VRT by Eileen Brennan, CVRT
This column deals with general websites that I have found to be very useful both to myself and for information I can print off to provide to clients.
www.nei.nih.gov The website of the National Eye Institute offers a wealth of information about eye conditions, current research, and patient information and more. Many of the publications for patients that are listed and described are free. Professionals can obtain many of these resources to use with clients—and to distribute to others in inservices, talks and at health fairs.
www.noah-health.org
New York Online Access to Health is a wonderful website formed in 1994 by several NY library organizations and the NY Academy of Medicine. The website offers, “quality, filtered consumer health information.” This website allows me to offer clients information that has been screened by other professionals and found to be reliable – a great resource.
www.afb.org
The website of the American Foundation for the Blind is a great resource. I use it most often for general information on statistics, for information about eye conditions, for links to other sites and for their publication, “AccessWorld.” This publication features great reviews of adaptive equipment as well as how-to articles. A recent article on how to buy a CCTV includes all the factors for a client to consider before making such a purchase.
www.rnib.org
The Royal National Institute for the Blind (UK) has an excellent website for client information and resources as well as links to other sites. While it offers the British perspective, I have found their information to be presented in a universal way that greatly helps clients. They also offer links to many other websites. One part of the website, “See for yourself,” offers practical information to make life easier.
www.aph.org
Fred’s Head Database is found on the APH website and offers tips and techniques for an by blind and visually impaired individuals. This database covers a wealth of information from the consumer’s perspective. While I find the APH website difficult to navigate at most times, I can easily get to Fred’s Head and find information there.
www.chid.nih.gov
The Combined Health Information database is a bibliographic database of articles, health promotion and educational materials. This website gives me sources, including addresses and cost, of a wide variety of health information. I find it helpful for professional literature as well as an easy way to find out about pamphlets on various eye conditions and where to purchase them.
www.maoclinic.com
The Mayo Clinic website provides good patient information about many diseases and conditions. It is easy to use since one only has to click on the “diseases and conditions” tab once one is on the site. It also offers wonderful (printable) illustrations and slide shows. The illustrations and slides are simple, clear and easily understandable.
www.nyise.org
I have found the Blindness Resource Center on the NY Institute for Special Education’s website to be wonderfully helpful. It contains basic information on many topics—eye conditions, adaptive technology, Braille, web access and much more. Listed within each category or resources from many organizations. Many, many links to other websites are included. For example, I recently found on this website a list of CCTV manufacturers with links to all of them.
www.rehabilitationteaching.org
Sometimes we need to be reminded of the most obvious sources. The RT website is small but has a great deal of information helpful to us. If you haven’t checked it out you have missed an easy-to-use site!
NOTE: Eileen, who works in Maine, has asked that we also include her email, so that people can share additional websites and/or their comments with her. Eileen Brennan’s email: eileenmb@midmaine.com
OOPS, PARDON ME, ETC…Mistakes and Corrections to the Membership Addendum
Please delete the following names and addresses from the Members List:
Leanne Taylor
Michele Anikeeff Mullins
Patricia Kelly
Mark David Gilley
April Shinholster
Please add the following addresses for the following members:
Deann Marsh: 25 Oakhurst Ave, Ipswich, MA 01938 Phone: 978-407-1214
Email: elenamars@comcast.net
Diane True: 209 E. North St, Hayworth, IL 61745 Phone: 309-838-5315
Email: dtruetou@aol.com
Joyce Tudor: 5118 Battle Creek Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
Work phone: 870-739-5111; Home phone: 901-438-6555 ; Work email: jtudor@marion.crsc.k12.ar.us Home Email: joyce@maddox-tudor.net
NOMINATIONS NEEDED FOR OFFICERS AND FOR AWARDS!
Chair-elect
Secretary/Treasurer
We REALLY REALLY need you to nominate worthy candidates for the three main awards that we give out as a Division.
Bruce McKenzie Award (lifetime)
Rising Star Award (new to the field)
Meritorious Achievement (special accomplishment)
Send your nominations to Nancy Paskin or email to nansam@peoplepc.com DO THiS !!!!
Adaptive Home Repair Tools and Techniques for the Blind and Visually Impaired User by Kathy Bushkirk and Raedine Listopad
Completing some basic home repair projects may benefit the consumer in several ways. The convenience of not having to wait for another person to get the job done and of course, the economic savings can be reason enough for a consumer’s desire to perform various tasks. Performing repairs independently can also generate the feeling of satisfaction from accomplishing a task as well as raise one’s level of self-esteem.
Getting Started…
The issues of safety and organization must be addressed before undertaking any task, especially a home repair task. SAFETY is the first and most important issue of all!! Obtaining and using safety glasses for protection may be warranted for some activities. Certain repairs may warrant keeping the work area well ventilated (painting), shutting off electric and/or water supplies or avoiding extreme heat or cold. Organizational ideas to accomplish repairs may include: Setting out the appropriate tools to be used for the project Using a tray or carpenter’s apron to keep tools or other items close at hand Storing tools in an organized fashion for easy and safe retrieval If a consumer has some residual vision, the basic principals of low vision should be evaluated. Placement and types of lighting may be beneficial as well as the use of color contrast to differentiate the task background or using the tool that may be required for a certain project. Finally, a low vision device such as a magnifier, electro-optical device, enlarging directions or patterns may also assist the consumer in accomplishing a task. You may want to develop a class using the basic tools and ’adaptive tools’ we have listed below.
Basic Tools for Home Use
Auger (Drain snake for open-ended drains)
ABC fire extinguisher (for all but metal fires)
Adjustable open-ended Wrench
Claw hammer
Glue (general/household use)
Glue (general/household use)
Hangers, assorted types (adhesive, picture hook and nail are most simple)
Measuring device
Multi-purpose oil (e.g. 3-in-one oil)
:Pliers
Paint brushes (3” & 4” wall, 1-1/2” trim) Edger
Phillips screwdrivers (#1 & #2)
Plunger
Safety glasses
Sandpaper, assorted grains
Saw, crosscut
Screws, assorted sizes, types
Screwdrivers (3/16”, 1/4”, 5/16”)
Shelf liner (to prevent materials from slipping/use as a gripper/use for color contrast)
Ready-made tool kits are also available at local stores.
Adaptive Tools for the Visually Impaired User
(This is a table, for ease of reading by a screen reader, the table information will be presented in the following order, separated by semicolons. Tool; Use; Technique; Task; Resource)
Auto Hammer; Hammer a nail without holding it in place; Drop nails into handle & close handle. Press button to release nail. Place nail on surface and hammer.; hammering a nail in a wall to hang a picture; Maxi-Aids, $24.95, #558236.
Brad Pusher; hammer small nails or brads without holding them in place; Put a small brad or nail in shaft headfirst. Place the driver on surface and repeatedly push on ball of handle.; Hobby or craft project.; Opti-Plus, $8.50, #40025.
Impact Nailer; Hammer a nail in without holding nail in place; Put nail in shaft headfirst and place nailer on surface. Pull up handle and pound until nail is in place.; hammering under a shelf. (difficult to reach areas); Opti-Plus, $24.95.
Nail Punch; Make a tactile mark in wood or aluminum., Place bottom of nail punch where you want a nail to go. Hammer to top of nail punch two or three times. ; make a mark in an exact place for a nail.; Opti-Plus, $18.50.
Self-centering brad set; Drives small brads into wood surface without damage to wood; Nail brad into wood leaving head protruding. Put sleeve of brad set over brad head. Strike top of sleeve with hammer.; Nailing together a picture frame that is loose; Opti-Plus, $6.25.
Marking Awl; Mark a piece of metal or wood to make a hole or cut; Find the spot in which a mark needs to be made. Gently scratch the surface making a tactile indentation.; Marking a spot on the wall to place a nail; Opti-Plus, $8.50, #40100.
Nails Guides; Holds nail in place for hammering; Slide nail shaft into nail guide until nail stops (snuggly so nail will stand up in guide); Holding a nail when using a regular hammer; D. Living $2.99, #DL2124, Clotilde, $1.58, #521000
Lighted Screwdriver; Add light to the task area, snap on bit attachment, magnetic for bit retention; Choose appropriate bit for task, place in magnetic opening on top of driver. Push red, indented button on base of handle for light.; Unscrew/screw the backing on a talking clock to replace batteries; Opti-Plus, $42.00, #40150.
Easy Spin Screwdriver Set; Loosening or tightening of screws without twisting wrist.; Position head of screwdriver into screw, rotate the screwdriver handle (no wrist movement) to remove or replace screws; Putting a faceplate over an electrical outlet.; Maxi-Aids, $12.95, #558113.
Magnetizer/Demagnetizer; magnetize regular screwdrivers; To magnetize, put end of tool into the magnetizer hole several times, to demagnetize pull tool through grooved side of magnet; Magnetize a screwdriver to pick up dropped screw, pins; Local hardware store, $2.99.
Eyebolt Measure; Measuring short distances; Hold the eye of the bolt with the notch in the upward position and the opposite hand holding the movable flange. Turn the bolt clockwise to begin measuring, One full turn of the bolt is 1/16th of an inch.; Measuring the thickness of wood or side of a nail or screw; Opti-Plus, $12.50, #40010.
Talking Tape Measure; Audibly measure long distances; Extend the tape to the distance needed. Once the tape has stopped moving the measurement will be spoken.; measuring the length of a table for a table cloth; Maxi-Aids, $89.85, #3082716.
Tactile Tape Measure; Tactually measure long distances; Extend the tape to the distance needed. Will indicate six inch and 1 foot increments tactually. There is a six inch ruler attach that will measure in 1/8th increments.; measuring the distance between two pictures on a wall; Maxi-Aids, $25.95, #132*20.
Braille Ruler-1 foot; Tactually measure distances up to 1 foot; Will measure in 1/4 or 1/8 increments. Each inch is labeled with a Braille number. A marker will slide up and down the ruler to mark the measurement.; Measuring the height and width of a piece of paper.; Maxi-Aids, $5.95, #2013070.
Tactile Rule—1 foot; Tactually measure distances up to 1 foot; Uses large print, high contrast markings with a raised number, line and Braille number overlay. Measures to the 1/8th of an inch; measuring the height and width of a piece of cardboard.; Maxi-Aids, $2.75, #4561938.
Click Ruler; Audibly and tactually measure distances up to 4 feet; Place click ruler on material or item to be measured. Loosen the lock and put the end of the rod even with the front stop. Move the rod to the measurement needed and tighten the lock.; measuring a piece of material for a sewing project.; Opti-Plus, $85.00, #40080.
THE REST OF THIS TABLE WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE NEXT NEWSLETTER.
Resources:
Maxi-Aids, 42 Executive Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735, 800-522-6294; www.MaxiAids.com Opti-Plus, 3882 Morganza Rd, Bridgeville, PA, 15017, Phone/FAX: 724-745-1910 Clotilde LLC, POBox 7500, Big Sandy, TX 75755-7500, 800-772-2891; www.clotilde.com
THE REST OF THE RESOURCES WILL BE PUBLISHED IN THE NEXT NEWSLETTER
PRODUCT REVIEW
by Nancy Peavy, CVRT of Augusta, ME
I have been very pleased with the performance of the Sherlock Talking Label Identifier from American Printing House for the Blind. This product has filled a labeling need for a client with no vision who is not able to learn Braille due to short-term memory loss. The device is so simple to operate that in spite of his memory problem he had no difficulty learning how to operate it successfully.
The kit includes the Sherlock labeling device along with 25 stick-on paper labels and 10 plastic tag labels, an instructional 2-track cassette tape, a Braille and print Quick start guide and two AAA batteries. Additional labels and tags can be purchased separately. The Sherlock device is about the size of a small TV remote control but only has two buttons. My client and I found it very helpful to listen to the instructional cassette together to get acquainted with the device and to learn how to operate it correctly.
To record labels you simply place one end of the Sherlock device against the label, press one button until you hear the information telling you that the label is blank, then press and hold the other button to record a voice message. A beep alerts you to begin recording the label. Once you hear the beep it is not necessary to continue to hold the Sherlock against the label, you can bring the device closer to your mouth to speak. To end recording you simply stop pressing the recording button. Sherlock allows you to record up to 2 minutes per label with a total recording allowance of about 2 hours and 20 minutes. The device tells you how many total minutes of recording time are left each time you read a blank label. To delete labels you simply place the Sherlock against the label and hold both buttons simultaneously until it tells you that your message has been erased. You can then re-record the label.
To read labels you have recorded you simply place the correct end of the Sherlock against the label and press the play button. You will hear a beep that lets you know the device has registered correctly and the recording then plays. If the device has not registered it gives an error sound. If Sherlock gives the error sound you simply change the placement of the device against the label until it can read it. Most of the time Sherlock will read the label on the first try. An excellent feature of this device is that there is no right side up- it will read the label from any direction as long as enough of the label is underneath the correct end of the device. The paper labels are pressure sensitive and pressing the Sherlock against the labels too hard will cause the device to be unable to record or read them. The paper labels will not work if applied directly to metal surfaces but APH technical support said that backing the label with thick cardboard and taping it down so that there is a barrier between the label and the metal will work.
The paper labels are approximately 1.5” X 1” and fit perfectly on the spine of a VHS tape. My client found it helpful to place a stick-on bump next to the label so he could locate it quickly. Anyone who has a good sense of touch would be able to locate the edge of the label and would not need a bump. The paper labels are thin enough to be placed on the surface of a cassette tape or on the non-play side of a CD. Because they are erasable and allow a long recording time they could be used to make an appointment book or an address book, for recipes, or other creative uses.
The plastic tag labels included in the kit are as easy to use as the paper labels. The tags are well designed to be tactually user friendly. The tags have a loop to allow for an elastic to go through easily. The size of the tags- less than one inch in diameter- make them excellent for canned goods or any packaged goods. These tags can be used for clothing as they are washer and dryer safe. They are also freezer safe.
The Sherlock has an input for headphones and this might be helpful for individuals who are hard-of-hearing and don‘t wear hearing aids. Sherlock also has 3 volume settings. Because the device does not have to be held against the label once it has registered the label, it can be brought close to the user’s ear while it plays which may also be helpful for individuals with hearing loss.
The cost of the Sherlock Label Identifier kit is $229.00 and is well worth it. It is easy to use and works well consistently. For most anyone with labeling needs who cannot use large print or Braille it is a great product and a tremendous improvement over previous voice labeling devices such as the Vox Com.
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO ? THE RT COOKBOOK PROJECT
By Lisa-Anne Mowerson, CVRT
From Lisa:
As of Sept. 2005, I have received the following contributions to the RT Cookbook Project:
Desserts: 10
Entrees: 16
Side Dishes: 6
Soups and Stews: 6
Special Appliances: 6
“How-to:” Hints: 25
A minimum or 20 –25 recipes are needed in each category. Thus, only the “How-to” Hints category has enough entries in it. But more hints will be accepted, too.
Recipes received so far have been tested and a skill focus or skill level has been determined. I really would like to receive recipes that YOU, as an RT, use in your daily work to teach cooking skills or adaptive cooking skills.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Submit Recipes: Many recipes are need that include a range of skill levels. What recipe can you use with a beginner cook? A veteran cook? What recipe can you complete in one lesson?
Submit Suggestions for cooking hints and definitions of cooking terms: This is not an effort to recreate existing publications; instead we want to share valuable resources that other rehabilitation teachers can utilize in lesson planning.
Submissions should be sent to Lisa-Anne Mowerson, 8 N. Elm Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 or email: l.mowerson@sbcglobal.net
THIS PROJECT CAN NOT MOVE FORWARD WITHOUT YOUR HELP !
Other New Products and Offerings…maybe an upcoming product review?
Phone Moncoles, by Bruce Richards of Richards Vending, 6123 Craughwell Lane, Dublin , OH 43017, Phone: 614-406-9793 www.RichardsVending.com This device is a 2X magnifier that fits on a cell phone or chordless home phones with a visual display. Sample price with shipping is $4.00 He is working on 3x and 4x models. Unit cost is $5.95.
New Braille Instruction Books. Sandy Price, Braille Instructor at The Virginia Rehab. Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired has written and is selling two new books. They are The Easy Jumbo Book and The Simple Standard Book, each are 35 pages. They cost $26.95 and $24.95 respectively. Print is $5.00 Contact Sandy at either 804-550-3733 or via email idigdots@comcast.net.
Free Large Print book of Common Prayer (Episcopal Church), now on CD. To order: Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope (6 x9”) with three 37cent stamps (4 if using a padded envelope), to Ann Dahlen, 1900 6th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201. Donations are also welcomed. Ann sends these CDs all over the world.
The Cookbook Project Sample Recipe for the RT Division Cookbook
Making Ratatouille
SKILL FOCUS (List each of the skills that the recipe is designed to focus upon for specific teaching purposes.):
Peeling
Slicing
Dicing
PREREQUISITE SKILLS to be reinforced (List each prerequisite skill in the order it will appear in the recipe):
Cleaning vegetables
Measuring dry ingredients
Using a can opener
Stove usage Level 1
(Level 1: reheating, sautéing, boiling)
(Level 2: frying, steaming, searing)
Oven usage Level 1
(Level 1: baking or reheating)
(Level 2: broiling, stage baking, steaming)
Determining when foods are done
INGREDIENTS: (List each ingredient in the order in which it will appear in the recipe.)
1 eggplant peeled and cubed
3 medium zucchini peeled and sliced
2 minced cloves of garlic
1 sliced green pepper
1 tsp salt
1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Ingredients continued:
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp basil
1/4 tsp black pepper
EQUIPMENT: (List equipment in the order needed to prepare the recipe.)
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Vegetable peeler
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Large sauce pan
Wooden spoon
3-quart casserole dish
Aluminum foil
Oven mitts
Timer
DIRECTIONS: (Concise and as step by step as possible.)
Prepare all vegetables according to the ingredients list.
Saute vegetable in olive oil over medium heat on stovetop until vegetables begin to soften. Use wooden spoon to stir vegetables.
Remove from stove and pour vegetables into a casserole dish. Add spices to vegetables in casserole dish. Use wooden spoon to mix them into vegetables.
Cover casserole dish with foil or a lid.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F. Set timer for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven and serve.
Again submissions for the RT Cookbook Project should be sent to Lisa-Anne Mowerson, 8 N. Elm Street, Wallingford, CT 06492 or via email: l.mowerson@sbcglobal.net
This project needs you NOW or it risks being never completed.