The basic principles to keep in mind when considering home modifications for persons with vision impairments are reducing clutter, improving lighting, and utilizing color and contrast. These principles can help individuals to safely maintain a level of independence while also making objects more visible.

Kitchen and Dining Areas:

• Use white plates on a dark tablecloth, or place dark dishes on a white or light-colored cloth.
• Use brightly colored fluorescent tape to increase the visibility of drawer pulls and the edges of cabinet doors.
• Use brightly colored raised marking dots on the stove, oven, and microwave controls to allow for easier adjustments.

In the Bathroom:

• When towels, washcloths, and bath mats need replacing, purchase solid colors that contrast with the tub, floor and wall tile.
• Transfer soap, shampoo, and other bath products to brightly colored plastic bottles or wall-mounted containers that contrast with the tub and wall tile.
• Replace a white toilet seat with a brightly colored one that contrasts with the walls and fixtures.

In the Living Room:

• Is the lighting too dim, too bright, or does it cover too small an area? If so, consider increasing the wattage of light bulbs (within recommended limits), repositioning lamps, or adding additional lighting.
• Try rearranging the furniture so that a reading chair is positioned to take advantage of natural sunlight.

For those with low vision who wish to maintain their independence, consider home care as an option to help someone adapt and continue performing activities of daily living. An experienced caregiving team such as at Freedom Home Care will identify a person’s specific challenges with activities of daily living and help to provide solutions. These solutions can mean the difference between living safely in the comfort of home or a move elsewhere. For more information about how we can help, contact Freedom Home Care in Dothan, Alabama at 334-803-8078 or Opelika, Alabama at 334-745-7308. Freedom Home Care also has offices in Columbus, Georgia and Montgomery, Alabama.