Bringing the world back into focus: Two new AI tools for seniors

As we get older, our bodies change and so does our vision. Reading becomes more difficult. Walking into a store or reading a menu might feel frustrating. In the United States alone, more than 12 million people over the age of 40 are living with vision impairment, and over 1 million are considered legally blind, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Two new AI devices to support vision loss in seniors

However, advances in technology have given us new ways to support older adults with vision impairment. Two new AI tools, OrCam MyEye Pro and eSight 4, are helping seniors with vision impairment read again, connect with family, and feel more confident.

Let’s break down what these tools are, how they can help you or your loved one, and explore a few other options for supporting vision loss in older adults, including flexible in-home care services on Herewith.

The OrCam MyEye Pro: A new tool for reading assistance & more

The OrCam MyEye Pro is a small, lightweight device that attaches to any pair of eyeglasses. Once turned on, it becomes your personal reading companion and guide.

Using a tiny built-in camera, the device "sees" what’s in front of you and instantly reads aloud what it finds. It can read books, newspapers, street signs, or even prescription bottles while quietly whispering the information into your ear using a tiny speaker. No one can hear it but you.

This cool little device can also recognize familiar faces, identify products at the store, and even tell you the value of money in your hand. What’s even better is that it doesn’t need an internet connection. So very easy to use!

eSight: Enhancing the world before your eyes

Another innovative tool for vision impairment is eSight. The eSight device might look like a pair of high-tech glasses, but what they do is truly remarkable.

This device uses a small camera on the front of the glasses to capture what’s in front of you whether that’s a loved one’s face, a book, or your garden. Then, it enhances that image and displays it on high-definition screens right in front of your eyes. You can zoom in, adjust brightness and contrast, and even stream videos or phone calls right to the glasses.

With eSight, many people with low vision are able to read again, cook meals, recognize faces, and watch television comfortably. It brings clarity and color back into daily life.

eSight offers support with vision-related conditions such as:

• Macular Degeneration
• Diabetic Retinopathy
• Stargardt Disease
• Diabetic Vision Loss
• Cone Rod Dystrophy
• Ocular Albinism
• Optic Atrophy
• Optic Nerve Hypoplasia
• Retinopathy of Prematurity

Living with vision loss

Living with vision loss can be lonely and sometimes frustrating. It can make once-simple tasks feel impossible. OrCam MyEye Pro and eSight are helping to change that.

Studies from the National Eye Institute show that seniors with vision loss are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and even social isolation. Technology that helps people reconnect with the world around them can improve their emotional and mental well-being. There is a cost involved, but you may be able to find a program that will help with cover the purchase.

In-home care options to support vision loss

Herewith offers affordable options to support older adults with temporary or permanent vision loss. Our flexible in-home senior care services can be adjusted to meet each person’s unique needs. Helpers can read out loud to you, help with technology and devices, provide assistance with transportation, and more.

Explore in-home care services on Herewith:

• Companionship
• Transportation assistance with errands and appointments
• Help around the home
• Weekly meal prep