December brings us Christmas music, holiday sales, decorations, and calendars filled with festivities. It’s a time of joy and celebration. But what if you’re dealing with sight loss for the first time this holiday season? You may feel like you’re just barely coping and yet you’re expected to cheerily participate in all the goings on. Here are some ways you can navigate sight loss during the holidays.

You’re Not a Grinch

If you don’t feel like celebrating the way you usually celebrate because of sight loss, you’re not a Grinch. Don’t feel guilty about wanting to spend just a quieter more subdued Christmas, Hanukah, New Years or whatever you usually celebrate. Any health issues could be a traumatic experience, especially if it occurs suddenly, or if it’s a lasting change. Allow yourself to adjust and come to a place of acceptance and mental healing without being pressured into activities that feel overwhelming.

Honesty is not Humbug

Are there friends and loved ones who could be there for you if they knew what you were going through? With them, you don’t have to be embarrassed about sight loss. There’s no need to hide it or act like it’s not as bad. Honesty matters. True friends and loved ones will care and respect you for who you are regardless of your vision. You would want to be there for them, wouldn’t you? Instead of spending the holidays on your own, why not consider letting those few and trusted come in.

Shining a Light for the Little Ones

If you are a parent or a grandparent living with young children, sight loss may be difficult for them to grasp right away. They may not understand that you now have to do things differently and they could be more sensitive to all the changes during this season. With patience and gentleness, take the time to explain to them what it’s like for you. Tell them to describe their artwork, or the beautiful decorations they see. When you take the time to explain to them, they will begin to understand. They will learn how to be kind and helpful, not just to you, but also to others. If you do your best to be positive around them, they will remember your strength when they are going through future difficulties.

Shopping That Helps

Go shopping. Not for toys and trinkets necessarily, but for helpful aids and assistive technology that could make a big difference. From kitchen gadgets to accessible phones like RealSAM, there’s something in the market for everyone. Maybe this season is about finding out what works for you. If it sounds overwhelming, you can visit a low vision center near you. Many of them have products for demonstrations. You can try out different technologies, get guidance with purchasing and training.

Father Christmas Had Help and So Can You

If you are new to sight loss, you may feel helpless, that there’s very little you can do on your own. It won’t always be this way; you will be able to do many things independently. It takes time to learn and build confidence. In the meantime, if there’s something you can’t do, ask for help. For example, if shopping for gifts is something that brings you joy, and you can’t get to the store on your own or shop online, ask for help. You may eventually get mobility training to get to shops or assistive technology to shop online, but in the meantime, don’t miss out, ask for help.

If you have more critical needs at this time, it’s important to know that there is help and support. Reach out to your local sight loss organization for resources and guidance. They are there for you.

A Vision for the Season

Despite sight loss, it doesn’t take eyes to remember the true themes of the Christmas season, peace, love, joy, and hope. It’s a time to give thanks for blessings, cherish our loved ones and take joy in knowing that there’s a brighter future to come. If sight loss is overwhelming, take it one day at a time. With support and determination, you will soon be stepping into a new year with independence and confidence.

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The post When You’re New to Sight Loss During the Holiday Season appeared first on RealSAM USA.

I’ve recently had the pleasure of talking with Margaret. She’s been a RealSAM Pocket user since its UK release sometime late 2017. It was exciting to hear about her experience with Pocket and how she uses Outdoor Locations when she’s out for walks with her husband and their guide dogs.

What’s Great About Pocket

Margaret shares about Pocket, “The thing I like about it, it’s so simple to use, it’s really straightforward.”

With Pocket, she finds it so easy to call and send texts by voice and without other complications or distracting apps.

Pocket’s OCR is Amazing at Reading Handwriting

Pocket has several assistive features for blind and visually impaired users. Margaret shared that she has used the optical text recognition (OCR) feature included with the built-in video magnifier. “Oh yes, just some time ago, I found a Christmas card, and I tried reading it with another phone’s app. It couldn’t, but Pocket was able to read it, then I knew what it was.”

Be My Eyes on Pocket is Extremely Helpful

Be My Eyes is accessible on all RealSAM devices. It’s a volunteer-based organization providing free sighted assistance for blind or low vision users all over the world.

Margaret shares about Be My Eyes, “I use Be My Eyes almost every day for one thing or another. For instance, identifying food packets. I’ve just had a couple of packets that I needed to know what they were. One was a package of apricots and the other prunes. I can ask about dates on items, cooking instructions, different birthday cards, pieces of mail, if the OCR can’t read it. Yeah, little things like that, and identifying what color something is.”

She also explained how easy it is to access Be My Eyes on her Pocket. “I just say, ‘Be My Eyes,’ and it plays a little tune and somebody answers. And What’s so good about it is people will tell you which way you point your camera so you can get a better focus.”

Being visually impaired myself, I wholeheartedly agree with Marget when she says, “Be My Eyes, that’s a tremendous service. It really is.”

Enjoy Lots of Entertainment on Pocket

With Pocket, you can access thousands of books from phenomenal library sources like RNIB. Additionally, you can stream newspapers, magazines, radios, and podcasts. Margaret shared that on Pocket, she enjoys listening to the Archars, a BBC Radio 4 contemporary drama in a country setting.

Pocket’s Outdoor Locations is Great for Navigating

One reason I was looking forward to talking with Margaret was to learn more about using RealSAM’s navigation tool, Outdoor Locations. Previously, I hadn’t had a lot of experience using this feature on my Pocket and Margaret gave me the confidence to use it while I’m out.

At first, I thought that Outdoor Locations would be like other map applications. I thought that I’d have to be around a lot of businesses, shops, and what not, and I’d have to enter a specific destination, and I’d get step-by-step directions to that place.

Instead, I learned that Outdoor Locations is a tool that every user customizes based on the routes that they are familiar with and travel on. As you travel, you use Outdoor Locations to label specific points as landmarks. Then the next time you’re traveling through that area, you can turn on Outdoor Locations and have RealSAM notify you that you’re approaching or passing your landmark, from what direction it is, and how far you are from it.

Margaret uses this feature all the time. – “I live near a big country park and go for lots of walks with my guide dog and Locations is such a tremendous help.”

“My guide dog’s name is Florence, we usually call her Flo. She’s a five-year-old golden retriever. My husband, Roger, has a black flat coat retriever called Quigley. We have lovely walks in our local country park, and I have landmarked path junctions and benches. Flo loves finding benches and rubbish bins for me. There is a particularly tricky fork in one path for which there is no warning. Walking straight on and you end up in a car park, take the left fork and you continue on the footpath. Pocket gives me plenty of warning, so I know in advance to keep to the left.

“There are lakeside and riverside walks and two rather nice cafes, and the dogs enjoy a run on a field where Pocket helps us to know where we are.”

Experience Pocket’s Accessibility Features

After Margaret gave me tips for using Outdoor Locations, I was able to set landmarks around my neighborhood. I’m not able to read any street signs by sight, so it’s really very helpful to hear from my Pocket that I’m just a few feet away from a certain turn. (Pocket will use American or Metric measurements depending on your location). I’m looking forward to using Outdoor Locations more and more as I go to different parks and walks with my family.

If you want to get the full scoop on how Outdoor Location works, I’ve written all about it in a separate article, “Pocket’s Navigation Tool – Outdoor Locations” on the RealSAM News Page.

It’s always so helpful to learn new things from someone who deals with similar challenges. It was exciting for me to get to know Margaret and learn about her experience using Pocket. I hope you too can try out Outdoor Locations and other amazing and helpful features on RealSAM devices.

The post Meet Margaret, RealSAM Pocket user since 2017 appeared first on RealSAM USA.

In the journey of navigating blindness and visual impairment, finding support and resources is paramount. Among the organizations making a significant impact in this space is the National Federation for the Blind (NFB). Founded over eight decades ago, the NFB has been a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals experiencing sight loss and those supporting them.

NFB Founder

For someone experiencing any kind of disability, it’s often difficult to conquer numerous social barriers to succeed. But in 1940, Dr. Jacobus tenBroek founded NFB; the very first national organization that has paved the way to so many doors opening for those who are blind and visually impaired in America.

Dr. Jacobus tenBroek was born in 1911 as the son of Canadian prairie homesteaders. At the age of seven, he lost his vision in one eye due to a bow-and-arrow accident. At the age of fourteen, his remaining sight had completely deteriorated, and he became totally blind.

His life and career reflected what he believed about blindness—blindness does not equal incapacity. As a teenager, he attended the California School for the Blind in Berkley. He had the ability to network by writing numerous letters. He became the leader of the blind civil rights movement, a constitutional and welfare rights activist, an accomplished professor at University of California, Berkley, a public servant, scholar and orator.

The Origin of NFB

By 1934 Dr. Jacobus ten Broek joined with others to form the California Council of the Blind. This later became the National Federation of the Blind of California, which ultimately evolved into NFB.

NFB was born out of the need to address the systemic challenges faced by the blind and visually impaired community. Dr. tenBroek envisioned an organization that would unite blind individuals, creating a strong collective voice to advocate for their rights and improve their quality of life. Today, the NFB stands as a testament to his vision.

The Impact of NFB

Over the years, the NFB has achieved numerous milestones, significantly impacting the lives of those with visual impairments. The organization has played a pivotal role in advocating for crucial legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These laws have been instrumental in advancing the rights and opportunities of the blind community, ensuring equal access to education, employment, and public services.

How Can NFB Be Helpful to You

The NFB provides a wide range of services and resources tailored to the needs of blind and visually impaired individuals. These services include education and training in essential skills like Braille, assistive technology, and orientation and mobility. NFB also offers support in employment and career development, empowering blind individuals to pursue their professional aspirations. Additionally, the organization runs programs to promote independent living and offers scholarships to blind students pursuing higher education.

The NFB Convention

One of the most anticipated events in the blind community is the NFB Annual Convention. This gathering serves as a hub for networking, learning, and advocacy. It typically takes place in early July and attracts thousands of attendees from across the nation. The convention features seminars, workshops, and presentations on various topics related to blindness and visual impairment. It’s an opportunity to connect with peers, learn about the latest technologies, and engage in discussions that empower the community.

How to Become an NFB Member

Becoming a member of the NFB is a simple yet impactful way to support and be a part of this community. Membership provides access to resources, information, and a platform to contribute to advocacy efforts. To join, visit their “Join Us” page. You can locate and become a member of your local chapter, or contact your state affiliate president.

Through its advocacy, services, and annual convention, the NFB continues to be a vital resource and a beacon of hope for this community. Whether you are personally affected by sight loss or wish to support the cause, the NFB provides opportunities for engagement and positive change.

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Reference:

About Us. National Federation of the Blind, 2023 https://nfb.org/about-us

“Dr. Jacobus tenBroek.” Blind.net, National Federation of the Blind, 1990, 2010,

http://www.blind.net/who-are-the-blind-who-lead-the-blind/dr-jacobus-tenbroek-1916-to-1968.html

Blake, Lou Ann. “Who was Jacobus tenBroek?” Braille Monitor, nfb.org, 2006,

https://nfb.org/sites/default/files/images/nfb/publications/bm/bm06/bm0605/bm060503.htm

“History and Governance.” National Federation of the Blind, 2023 https://nfb.org/about-us/history-and-governance

“Join Us.” National Federation of the Blind, 2023, https://nfb.org/get-involved/join-us.

The post The National Federation of the Blind appeared first on RealSAM USA.

In a world that can sometimes seem chaotic, World Kindness Day on November 13th,  reminds us of the power of compassion. At some point, we’ve all learned from one of Aesop’s fables that, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Small acts of kindness positively impact individuals and communities. The ripple effect can be significant.

Everyone has an opportunity to be kind. You can make a difference in your own way in your own niches of family, friends, and colleagues. At RealThing, inclusivity is something we value, especially for those experiencing disabilities and sight loss. This World Kindness Day, why not challenge yourself to commit a small act of kindness and connect with someone who has special needs. It can be as easy as starting with a simple, “Hello.”

To Someone Who’s Visually Impaired

When you’re sighted, it’s easy to forget that blind and partially sighted people miss out on a lot of social ques and gestures. No, we don’t know you’re waving, “Hello” from across the street, or across the room, or even across the table. Most people with low vision won’t see you smiling or nodding your head in a friendly greeting. If you say, ‘Hi,’ and we haven’t spent a lot of time with you, we’ll say, ‘Hello,’ back. But we frequently have no idea who we’ve just spoken to; we haven’t had a chance to memorize the sound of the voice connected to the person. It can be very isolating to be around a lot of people and not be able to see faces and gestures.

I guarantee, you’ll make a difference in someone’s day with a greeting like, “Hello. How are you? it’s Jessica, from when you were walking with your guide dog at the park yesterday.” Or “Nice to see you again. It’s Bob from the bus stop. Have a good day at work.” Or “Hey. It’s Helen again, I rang up your groceries last week. How are you today?”

To Someone Who’s Deaf or Hard of Hearing

It’s not just visually impaired people who miss out on friendly gestures. It can be very isolating for deaf and hard of hearing people. At the very least it might be like being in a foreign country and not knowing the language. It would be a challenge to function without being able to interact with others.

If there’s someone in your circle or community who’s hard of hearing, it would be wonderful if you could learn to say a few things in sign language. Basic things that aren’t difficult like, “How are you?” And “Have a good day.” And “Thank you,” or “You’re welcome.”

There are also apps that could transcribe as you speak and will let them type a response to you. You can text back and forth or just use paper and pencil to communicate. Just take a minute from time to time to interact with them.

If you’re someone who’s visually impaired trying to communicate with someone hard of hearing, you’ll have to be creative. But it is possible, I am legally blind, and I communicate with my brother who is totally deaf.

To Someone with Other Disabilities

Other individuals with disabilities, people who use mobility aids like wheelchairs, people who have difficulty speaking, moving, or have cognitive challenges, are often overlooked. Many times, it’s easy for society to have a dismissive or unpleasant attitude towards disability. People don’t realize that they’re staring impolitely when someone can’t speak properly or has unusual uncontrolled movements. Often misunderstood, it can be extremely isolating for them as well.

It’s not hard to courteously move aside to let the wheelchair through, but it’s quite another matter to connect with someone so different from oneself. You can overcome that discomfort with kindness. Start with something simple, just a friendly wave or a cheerful smile.

The Ripple Effect

Saying, “Hello” might seem incredibly inconsequential at the moment, but kindness has the potential to create a ripple that can move mountains. Your kind greeting might be observed by another person, and they in turn also do something kind. You might unknowingly be an example to a young person who might be inspired to volunteer for a helpful organization. You might give someone the confidence to do something they didn’t think they could. Or you could just be making somebody’s day and that alone is worth the trouble.

Happy World Kindness Day from the RealSAM Team!

–End of Article–

The post World Kindness Day appeared first on RealSAM USA.

At RealThing Ai it’s our mission to deliver solutions that help blind and visually impaired users go through their day independently. Pocket’s Navigation Tool, Outdoor Locations is one assistive feature, enabling someone who’s blind or has low vision to find their way any time they’re traveling outdoors.

Here’s everything you need to know about Outdoor Locations.

Outdoor Locations vs. Map Apps

Outdoor Location is a navigation tool that relies on Pocket’s built-in GPS receiver. It allows RealSAM to track your location and tell you where you are as you travel outside.

Outdoor Locations will not give you step-by-step directions to get from point A to point B. It’s not like other map applications. It’s a tool that you customize to help you find your way as you walk a familiar route. The first time you use Outdoor Locations in a new route, you label specific points in your travel as locations that will be saved on a list. The next time you travel the same route, Outdoor Locations will let you know that you are approaching or passing those points. It will also let you know your distance and direction from your nearest saved locations.

Starting and Stopping Outdoor Locations

As with everything RealSAM, Outdoor Locations is simple and easy to use. Simply press the “tap to talk” button on your Pocket and say, “Start Outdoor Locations.” RealSAM will respond with, “Starting Outdoor Locations.”

It will also remind you that Outdoor Locations uses a lot more battery power than other applications, so be aware about your cellphone having enough charge. One suggestion for anyone who wants to use Outdoor Locations for longer periods would be to carry a portable backup charging device. You can hook up your phone on the go and not worry about draining the battery as you use Outdoor Locations to navigate.

When you’re done using Outdoor Locations, simply, “tap to talk” and say, “Stop Outdoor Locations.” Pocket will say, “Stopping Outdoor Locations.” Your cellphone will then return to normal battery usage. You can start and stop Outdoor Locations at any time as you travel, it will automatically detect where you are and your nearest labeled locations.

Labeling Locations

If you start Outdoor Locations, but you have not yet labeled any points, Pocket will not say anything as you move since it has no list to refer to. Additionally, you must have Outdoor Locations running before you can begin labeling locations. Also, note that while you can label locations indoors, Outdoor Locations works best, more accurately outside.

To label a location, start Outdoor Locations. Stand at the spot you want to label, press the “tap to talk” button and say, “Label location as…” or “Add location as…” For example, if you want to add your house, stand by your front door, press the “tap to talk” and say, “Add location as Home.” Or “Label location as Home.” Pocket may say, “Home 0 feet.” This means you’re standing right where your label is. Then as you walk away, every minute or so, with Outdoor Locations turned on, Pocket will say something like, “Home 10 feet back,” meaning that your front door is now 10 feet behind you. As you get closer to your front door, Pocket may say something like, “Home 10 feet front.”

Customizing Your Locations

You can label as many locations as you want with different names. Every one will automatically be saved on your locations list and detected the next time that you’re near it.

Label stores and streets by their actual names like, “Starbucks”, “Aldi”, and “Corner of University Way”. Get creative with your location names; label the beginning of your driveway, “Home At Last”, the entrance of your favorite park, “Best Place Ever”, the corner of a noisy street, “Noisy Lane”, etc. Set unique landmarks like, “1^st Park Bench”, and “3^rd Buildings from Lisa’s Apartment”.

When it’s difficult or not possible to see landmarks and read signs, it’s reassuring to know that you’re going the right way. You’ll hear Pocket tell you that you’re approaching the different landmarks you’ve set along the way.

Managing Your Location List

It’s easy to change the name of your location labels. Simply press the “tap to talk” button and say, “List locations.” Select the location you want to change and say, “Change to…” For example, if you want to change your label from “Home” to “My Castle”, select “Home” from the list and say, “Change to My Castle.” Pocket will ask you to confirm the change by saying, “Please say, ‘Yes.’ If you want to change name to My Castle, or, ‘No.’ to cancel.”

Likewise, remove locations from your list by selecting the location and saying, “Delete.” Pocket will ask you to confirm by saying, “Say, ‘Yes’ to delete or ‘No’ to cancel.”

Setting Focus Points

One more thing you can do from your Locations List is to set a “focus point”. This is telling Pocket that your goal is to reach that particular location. For example, select “Home” from the list and say, “Focus.” From then on, Pocket will notify you with something like, “Focus point ‘Home’ 20 feet front right.” This lets you know you’re going in the right direction; your front door is 20 feet forward to your right. If your aim is “Home” but you hear Pocket say something like, “Focus point ‘Home’ 50 feet back,” then you know you’re going the opposite way and you need to turn around.

More Navigation Tools and Assistive Features on Pocket

Learn more about Outdoor Locations by reading “Meet Margaret”. She shares her experience with Pocket and describes how she uses Outdoor Locations on her walks.

RealSAM Pocket has additional navigational features without having to turn on Outdoor Locations. You can read more about this feature from “Pocket’s Navigation Tool – Orientation Features” from the RealSAM News Page.

Check out other RealSAM assistive tools on Pocket:

Accessible Global Time, Date, and Weather on your RealSAM Pocket

The Video Magnifier on RealSAM

7 Things to Consider When Shopping for a Cell Phone for Seniors

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The RealSAM Pocket is not just accessible, it’s also designed with features that support everyday independence for those who are blind or visually impaired. Pocket has a Navigation Tool with Orientation Features that will help you find your way. Here are two things you can find out using Pocket’s Orientation Features.

Ask Pocket Where You – Get Accurate Location

The RealSAM location tool can accurately tell you where you are and what’s around you.

Just press the “tap to talk” button and ask, “Where am I?” Pocket will tell you the nearest address and cross street detected by the GPS. Personally, every time I’ve done this with my Pocket, I’m able to get an accurate location. When I’m at home, I’ve had Pocket tell me that, ‘You’re close to…’ my exact address, and an approximate distance from the nearest intersecting street.

I’ve found that if I’ve just started the phone, or if it has been inactive for a while, it takes one or two tries to get the GPS on point. If at any time you ask Pocket, ‘Where am I?’ and you get a response that doesn’t sound familiar or you know is not correct, just give it another go, or give it a minute and then try again. This hasn’t happened to me often, but when it does after the second time, the GPS would readjust and function normally, providing accurate location.

Ask Pocket What’s Around You – Get Nearby Points of Interests

In addition to pinpointing your location, you can also find out what’s around you with Pocket. “Tap to talk” and use these phrases:

“What’s near me?”

“What’s nearby?”

“What’s around here?”

“Local points of interests.”

RealSAM will respond with “Where you are, nearby points of interest include…” and list businesses, restaurants, stores, places of worship, and more. For example, from one location in town, Pocket might tell me, “Where you are, nearby points of interests include Cullet Guttering Services, Audio Recording, Jean’s Auto Painting, Cindy’s Cleaning Solutions, Spring Theatre, Grace Bible College…”

You can continue to check for what’s around you as you walk or anytime you are somewhere new.

How Can this Orientation Feature Be Helpful to You?

Using the RealSAM orientation feature to find out where you are and what’s nearby will help you navigate any time you are out. It can be especially useful in certain situations.

1. Navigating a new or an unfamiliar place

It’s helpful to have a friend or a guide when going somewhere for the first time. It gives you an opportunity to get the lay of the land when someone can describe what’s around. You can get specific directions that will help you become more familiar with that location.

But it’s not always possible to go to a new place with a sighted guide. The RealSAM orientation feature can be helpful, for instance, to confirm that you’ve arrived at the correct location after traveling via public transportation or ride-share. As long as you know the street or address of your destination, you can gain more confidence by confirming your location when you ask RealSAM, “Where am I?”

If your destination is a place of business or a shop, and you’re not directly in front of it when you get off your ride, you can see if Pocket can detect it when you ask, “What’s nearby?” For example, if you’re looking for your favorite restaurant, Pocket will be able to tell you that it’s in your vicinity. This feature will not give you step-by-step directions, but it will help you to get a sense of your surroundings and allow you to make a better decision about which direction to set out for.

2. Meeting up with a friend

You can use this orientation feature when you’re meeting someone. Ask Pocket, “Where am I?” Then tell your Pocket to call your friend and relay the nearest cross street and the nearest address.

3. Giving directions

If you need to let someone know where to pick you up, you can tell them what you’re close to and your exact location according to Pocket.

4. Discover a new point of interest

Have you ever gone somewhere and had no idea that your favorite store was right around the corner? The next time you go to one of your regular locations, ask Pocket, “What’s nearby?” You’ll discover interesting new places to try. You might not be able to go there right then and there, but you can take note of it. Then later, have a family member, friend, or mobility instructor map out a route for another time.

5. Use the RealSAM orientation feature with Be My Eyes

Find out what’s around you using the RealSAM orientation feature, then get sighted assistance from a Be My Eyes volunteer. Using your phone’s camera, they can let you know if that point of interest is accessible from where you are. They can describe your surroundings in detail, read signs you can’t see and give you some directions.

More Location Tools and Assistive Features

RealSAM Pocket includes additional navigation tools that can help you navigate. Find out more from “Pocket’s Navigation Tool – Outdoor Locations” from RealSAM News Page.

RealSAM devices also include additional assistive features. Check out these articles on the RealSAM News Page.

Accessible Global Time, Date, and Weather on your RealSAM Pocket

The Video Magnifier on RealSAM

7 Things to Consider When Shopping for a Cell Phone for Seniors 

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Getting a new and accessible cell phone from RealSAM is exciting! If you’ve recently ordered Pocket, you’re looking forward to using your new device right away. But as with anything new, you’ll need to set it up and get the hang of using it with ease. Learning how to use new technology may seem intimidating—with RealSAM, there’s no need to worry. You’ll have access to an 1-on-1 Customer Support from an exceptional team that will take the time to guide you through every step of the process.

We Offer Introductory Call Sessions

It’s our mission to empower blind and visually impaired people with technology that makes a difference. At the core of this is our friendly customer support team that can help you with setting up and bring you to where you’re confident and having the best experience with your new RealSAM device.

We offer 3 Introductory 1-on-1 Calls to help new customers. Whether you’re setting up your new phone on your own, or you’re helping someone, we are available to give you step by step guidance or answer any questions during our Introductory Sessions.

From wifi set up, to adjusting basic setting preferences, and of course adding your very first contact—you can call in as soon as you get your new phone, or you can book your first 1-on-1 call at your convenience.

Voice control makes Pocket friendly and easy to use. Once you start exploring Pocket, it won’t take long before you’re fully confident calling, texting, and adding new contacts by voice.

New customers are welcome to book a 2^nd and 3^rd 1-on-1 call. You can get guidance with things like RealSAM’s assistive tools and media features. We’ll walk you through navigating books, newspapers, and podcasts. If you’ve never experienced using OCR, object text recognition, we’ll help you become familiar with the RealSAM video magnifier on your phone. We can also assist with making sure you’re connected to sighted assistance with Be My Eyes and your  emergency contact system in place.

Of course, during these sessions, we’re here to answer any other questions you may have.

1-on-1 Calls Are Tailored for Each User

Every person has their own preferences and their own pace with new technology. At RealSAM we love the diversity we experience with all our customers. Accessibility for everyone is a priority. 1-on-1 Introductory Sessions are friendly and flexible. Our customer support team is dedicated to providing information and guidance that would be most helpful to you. In this way, each session is tailored and sensitive to the specific needs of every user.

Unlimited Support 

Beyond our 1-on-1 Introductory Calls, our Customer Support Team is available to help with any questions or to troubleshoot any issues. Visit our Contact Page to fill out a RealSAM Enquiry Form or to get information about our hours and ways to reach us. If you call us out of our office hours, just leave us a message and we’ll get back to you promptly.

We look forward to connecting with you.

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The RealSAM Customer Portal makes it convenient for you or a family member to manage your RealSAM Pocket’s content. After trying it out for myself, here’s what I’ve discovered about the platform.

Getting on the Customer Portal is Super Easy!

If you find it difficult to set up new devices and accounts, you’re not alone. For me it can be time consuming and at times intimidating. And it’s not necessarily because of my visual impairment, although that does play a role in it, technology just doesn’t come as naturally to me as it may for others. So, I was a bit worried that it would be a complicated process to log onto the portal.

I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to get onto the RealSAM Customer Portal for the first time. There’s no need to fill out a long form. No need to enter details like name, email, birthday, etc. Also, there’s no need to come up with a username, and creating a long-term password is optional.

It takes 3 easy steps to get on the portal for the first time.

1. Go to https://portal.realsam.co.uk
2. On your Pocket, press the ‘tap to talk’ button and ask, ‘What is my portal log
   in?’
3. Enter the 5-digit ID number in the Username text field and the temporary
   password that RealSAM provides in the Password field.

The Customer Portal is Accessible to Low Vision Users

As a low vision user, there are several things that can be challenging when navigating websites and digital platforms. It may not be compatible with your assistive technology. It may be difficult to read text due to size, spacing, and lack of contrast.

After logging onto the portal, I found that the page was compatible with my assistive tech, Windows OS magnifier. I was able to zoom in and out without any glitches occurring. Additionally, it’s helpful that there is an option to resize the font and to choose greyscale mode.

It’s easy to find and select what you’re looking for in the portal. Each section is labeled on a large dark colored tile. Likewise, headings and buttons are labeled with large lightly colored text on dark backgrounds. Text fields are easy to identify; they are large and clearly labeled.

NEW – Catalog Browsing is Now Possible on the Portal

Catalog Browsing is a new feature recently added to the portal and I love it! As an avid reader, one of my favorite things to do on Pocket is to listen to audiobooks. I also enjoy tuning in to fun and interesting podcasts on various random topics—with Catalog  browsing it’s even easier to save my favorites and get new content.

You can easily search for any books from RealSAM’s 5 amazing book sources, by title, author or description. When you’ve found what you’re looking for, just click on the ‘Add to Bookshelf’ button and it’ll be ready for you to listen to on your Pocket.

Browse the whole list of Radio Stations or search for a specific one by title, location or genre. Browse all available podcasts or search by Episode Title, Episode Description, or Program Name. Whenever you want to try something interesting, just click on the ‘Add to Favorites’ button and it’s ready for you to listen on your RealSAM Pocket.

Try It Out

Using the Customer Portal, you’ll be able to:

• Manage your contacts or add your whole address book to Pocket by
  uploading a CSV or VCF file
• Browse and search the catalog – save books to your Pocket’s Bookshelf
• Browse and search the catalog – save radio stations and podcasts to Favorites on Pocket
• Purchase a RealSAM Hub subscription
• Create a long-term personalized password
• Access support and device information

All these features are accessible and make it convenient and easier to manage what you want to have in your RealSAM Pocket. And if you’re helping your loved one with their contacts or their content, the portal makes it easy to do everything remotely.

End of Article

The post The RealSAM Customer Portal appeared first on RealSAM USA.

At RealSAM our mission has been to empower individuals living with sight loss using innovative technology that makes a difference in everyday life. We aim to always prioritize accessibility, and in light of Blindness Awareness Month we want to share our enthusiasm for the future by shining a light on technology that’s breaking barriers for the visually impaired community.

Smart Technology for the Visually Impaired

There’s no other way to say it. Navigating the world with low vision or total blindness is difficult. There are many things that you don’t have control over. You can’t easily get to where you need to go, you can’t always read what you need to know, and it’s painful when your lack of vision prevents you from doing things for the ones you love.

It’s difficult, but not impossible. In whatever stage of life we’re in, and whatever degree of vision we have, technology is making success more accessible.

Artificial intelligence AI is technology that’s breaking barriers for thousands of blind and visually impaired people all over the world. AI has the power to make things that were previously only accessible by sight now accessible to people with limited or no sight at all.

To put things simply, in today’s digital age, computers are capable of problem solving—and for the visually impaired person, it’s about getting information without seeing, and being able to do things without needing sight.

RealThing AI and RealSAM Devices

AI is continuing to develop; it’s being utilized by different companies and it’s becoming integrated more and more into devices, apps, and other digital products.

RealThing AI is leading in using award winning AI technology to eliminate barriers for the blind and visually impaired. By designing assistive technology that relies on AI, RealSAM devices make it possible for visually impaired users to easily interact and control their mobile phones—something that’s challenging for many visually impaired users when faced with the complexity of today’s smartphones and touch screens.

AI Empowers Users in Everyday Life

AI has many different helpful applications for blind and visually impaired people. If you know about object and text recognition, you have an idea of how AI can be helpful in everyday situations for people with low vision. It’s AI technology that allows the computer to detect objects and text in pictures and provide the user with description that could be read by a screen reader, or an app specifically designed for the purpose. For example, you can take a picture of a cereal box and AI can tell you what it is you’re holding. You can take a picture of your surroundings and get a description of what’s around you.

RealSAM devices have these object and text recognition features included with their video magnifier app. This is helpful for everyday tasks like cooking, identifying labels, reading mail, and so much more.

One thing that’s unique about RealSAM devices is the way AI is used to enable users total control by voice. This makes it easier for people who would have difficulty reading and navigating a touch screen by sight, to do what they want to do on their phones. They can simply say a command like, ‘Add a contact,’ ‘Call my sister,’ and ‘Read my messages.’ Additionally, users can have access to information by asking a question like, ‘What’s the forecast?’ or ‘What’s my location?’

A Brighter Future

AI is improving every day. For example, AI has been capable of identifying items on a menu, or even reading you the whole thing, but today, it’s capable of answering a question like, ‘What’s the cheapest appetizer?’ AI can find this information and then answer follow up questions like, ‘What ingredients does that dish contain?’ AI can go beyond telling you that you’re looking at a car. It can describe it to you and tell you what type of car it is. As it improves, its capability to providing assistance with everyday living is a tremendous step towards independence.

This smart technology is exciting. During Blindness Awareness Month, it’s worth noting that we can look forward to more progress when AI is being used to develop solutions for people with sight loss. After all, technology is meant to make life easier. And when it’s being used to improve accessibility instead of creating barriers, we can look forward to a brighter, more inclusive future.

The post October is Blindness Awareness Month appeared first on RealSAM USA.

Three Common Age-Related Eye Conditions 

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide.  It is a progressive condition where aging causes damage to the macula, the part of the eye that controls sharp, detailed central vision. This causes the central visual field to become blurry or to develop dark spots. It can also cause vision to become distorted where objects seem to be displaced and/or straight lines appear wavy. 

Glaucoma can occur at any age, but it is another leading cause of vision loss for people over the age of 60. Glaucoma occurs when fluid build-up causes high eye pressure. This ultimately damages the optic nerve, the part of the eye that delivers visual input to the brain. Glaucoma is not easily detected, because its effects are so gradual and decreased vision is not noticeable until its later stages. 

Cataracts occur in older adults because with time the lenses in the eyes may break down and begin to leak protein that clumps together. When untreated it causes blurry, hazy, or cloudy vision.

Taking the first Step to Overcome Vision Loss 

With vision loss comes a slew of limitations. No longer being able to drive, read regular print, clearly see the faces of loved ones, and perform daily task with ease can be very discouraging for someone who has always been able to do these things. 

Encouraging a positive outlook is the first step to overcoming any difficulty in life and it’s no different when facing vision impairment. It’s important to understand that medical conditions do not define individuals and people have the power to choose to live meaningful, purposeful, and even joyful lives regardless of their age or physical disabilities.

Support & Resources 

From there, it’s a matter of finding real solutions to accomplish everyday goals. Staying connected to family and friends and getting involved with a church and/or a support group can greatly ease this process and increase confidence in maintaining independence. 

Fortunately, we live in a time where there are countless options available as far as having tools for the elderly community. Whether it’s services like ride sharing and personal shopping assistance, or assistive devices like magnifiers and money identifiers, or high-tech assistive technology like screen readers and a fully voice operated smart phone like the RealSAM Pocket—there are real solutions to adapting to life with vision loss. 

By Guenivir Kendrick with help from ChatGPT

References:

Cataract. AOA.org. (n.d.). Retrieved March 18, 2023, from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/cataract?sso=y 

Glaucoma. AOA.org. (n.d.). Retrieved March 18, 2023, from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/glaucoma?sso=y 

Macular degeneration. AOA.org. (n.d.). Retrieved March 18, 2023, from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/macular-degeneration?sso=y

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