Problem Solve with an Occupational Therapist
by Katrina Stratton
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As part of Spectrios' comprehensive low vision services, occupational therapy helps patients build independence and confidence in their daily lives. I work closely with each patient to find practical solutions that make everyday tasks more manageable.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is problem-solving. I meet with patients to break down everyday tasks into their essential parts-a process called activity analysis.
The goal?To find creative ways to make daily activities easier and more accessible. By adapting tasks to match a patient's abilities, we can discover new ways to navigate the challenges of vision loss. Over the years, I've come across quite a few outside-the-box low vision solutions-here are some of my favorites:
Silicone Cupcake Baking Cups
These little cups aren't just for baking! Their high-contrast colors and flexible material make them a great tool for managing medications. Pour a handful of pills into one while sorting your weekly pill box to keep them from rolling off the table or slipping through your fingers. Need to return extras to the bottle? Gently pinch the sides to create a handy pouring spout. You can also use a silicone baking cup as a designated spot for your daily dose-just be sure to choose a dark color so lighter pills stand out against the background and are easy to count.
Bright, Solid-Colored Phone Case
It's easy to misplace a phone, especially when it blends into counter tops, tables, or bedspreads. A vibrant phone case that contrasts with the most used surfaces in your home makes it much easier to spot!
Portable folding Book Lamp
Dining out can be tricky when many restaurants favor dim, moody lighting. A compact, rechargeable folding book lamp provides discreet, personal lighting right at your table. This small but powerful tool can make reading menus and enjoying your meal much easier-without disrupting the ambiance.
Handheld Mirror
If seeing your face or hair in a bathroom mirror above the sink is a challenge, try using a handheld mirror instead. Bringing it closer to your face provides natural magnification.
If you have light-colored hair and white bathroom walls, try using a handheld mirror in a space with a dark background-this contrast makes it easier to spot details, like a stray hair or a bit of toothpaste in the corner of your mouth.
Rubber Bands
There's a good chance you have a junk drawer with a few stray rubber bands-put them to USE. Rubber bands are an easy, low-cost way to differentiate between similar bottles and containers without needing to read the label. Wrap one around your shampoo bottle to distinguish from the conditioner or place a rubber band around your strawberry jam so you don't mix it up with raspberry. This simple trick is just one tactile cue you can use to make everyday tasks easier.
There are so many creative solutions that can make daily life easier with vision loss. I truly enjoy collaborating with patients to find the right tools and techniques that are going to fit their personal needs. If you're struggling with a particular task, let's problem-solve together-reach out for an occupational therapy appointment today!