Carroll Store Tech Talk
A vision-related virtual assistive technology series from the Carroll Store.
The Carroll Store Tech Talk series allows you can discover all sorts of high- and low-tech gadgets and devices to help you maximize your independence. Carroll Store Tech Talk is perfect for people who want to learn about the latest blindness and low vision products; from specialized equipment to off-the-shelf solutions. Each month we feature either a product demonstration from guests or an informational presentation from our own team of vision experts. The Carroll Store Tech Talk series is the best way to discover the solutions you need to make an impact in your daily life without ever needing to leave the comfort of your home office. View recordings of past Tech Talk episodes below.
Episode 1: eSight Eyewear
There are millions of people around the world who are legally blind or have low vision that can benefit from technology to enhance their independence. Assistive technology and devices have the power to change lives by removing the barriers that may prevent people from finishing their education, finding employment or enjoying the activities they love.
On Carroll Store Tech Talk, Episode 1: eSight Eyewear, we welcomed guest Samuel Peluso, Clinical Account Manager at eSight Eyewear. Clinically-validated, eSight is a Class 1 Medical Device that enhances vision for patients most commonly living with a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/60 to 20/800 caused by over 20 different serious eye conditions including macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Wearing eSight, many achieve 20/20 visual acuity. Simply put, eSight 4 is the most advanced enhanced vision device available.
Episode 2: Understanding Magnification
When glasses alone are no longer sufficient, magnification devices often have the power to help. For individuals with vision difficulties, it is possible to accomplish tasks otherwise thought to be impossible with the proper assessment, devices, and instruction.
On Carroll Store Tech Talk, Episode 2: Understanding Magnification, Bob McGillivray, Certified Low Vision Therapist at the Carroll Center for the Blind, joined us to better understand how magnification can help. In this episode, we explore the basics of magnification, what its limitations are, how to adapt to these limitations, and how magnification can help you use your vision to its greatest potential.
Episode 3: Cane and Guide Dog Travel
There are several guidance aids for people with vision loss, but solid orientation and mobility skills are the foundation for traveling safely and independently. The two most common guidance aids are white canes and guide dogs. If you are thinking about your options or are just curious why some people choose one method over another, come join us to discover the nuances of cane and guide dog travel.
On Carroll Store Tech Talk, Episode 3: Cane and Guide Dog Travel, we were joined by Zack Gittlen, Manager of Marketing and Outreach at Guide Dogs of America, Madeleine Babcock, guide dog user, and Jill Suarez, Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) at the Carroll Center for the Blind to discuss various guidance aids.
Episode 4: Labeling Methods
When dealing with vision loss, it is important to take control of your personal living environment to be or remain safe and independent. Whether you are preparing meals, bathing, or just doing laundry, labeling methods and organization are crucial. You can label and identify household and kitchen items by using any number of low-tech and high-tech methods.
On Carroll Store Tech Talk, Episode 4: Labeling Methods, we were joined by Jessica Hipp, Chief Operating Officer at WayAround and Ashley Colburn, Adaptive Technology Instructor at the Carroll Center for the Blind to discuss a variety of labeling methods, organization tips and solutions for all types of unique situations.
Episode 5: Vision Loss and Personal Recovery
Understanding the connection between blindness skill development and restoring your self-confidence is key to feeling more at peace with your new world when confronted with losing your vision. For example, learning how to speak in a firm, positive, and specific way (assertively) can be helpful when getting assistance or upholding your own rights. Phone or video chats with a friend as well as call-in support groups are great ways to get comfortable with a new speaking style.
On Carroll Store Tech Talk, Episode 5: Vision Loss and Personal Recovery, we welcomed guests Hannah Fairbairn, author of When You Can’t Believe Your Eyes: Vision Loss & Personal Recovery, and Jennifer Harnish, Director of Rehabilitation at The Carroll Center for the Blind to discuss the impact of developing rehabilitation techniques like assertive interpersonal skills, mobility, technology and personal management on specific aspects of emotional adjustment.
Episode 6: Sports and Tech
Warmer weather is on the horizon and with it comes more opportunities to get outside and be active. Whether it’s swimming, running, sailing, biking, goalball, or beep baseball, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy for people who are blind or visually impaired. When it comes to these activities, technology can be a game-changer–often quite literally. Sports like goalball and beep baseball are already designed especially for people who are blind or visually impaired, whereas others like swimming and running can be easily adapted using both high and low tech options.
On Carroll Store Tech Talk, Episode 6: Sports and Tech, we were joined by Joe Walsh of Adaptive Sports New England, Joseph Quintanilla of Boston Renegades Beep Baseball and Chaz Davis of Massachusetts Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Our panelists had an interesting conversation about how you can be active while integrating technology into recreation and sporting activities.
