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By Pamela D. Wilson, The Care Navigator, CSA, MS, BS/BA, CG
Many older adults with vision problems find themselves bored and at odds with nothing to do day by day. Hours pass very slowly, days become unending. Many were avid readers or participated in hobbies like knitting, crochet or woodworking. When eyesight becomes compromised, these activities are no longer possible. Many individuals become depressed and feel hopeless because they have no day to day routine or activities to anticipate and nothing to replace the lost hobbies.
A client of mine, once very active in volunteering for the community, has macular degeneration and cannot read printed material. She expressed concern about being bored in the evenings and also waking during the night and not being able to fall back asleep. With the help of her physician, I set her up with the Talking Book Library. She now has a way to entertain herself in the evenings and when she wakes in the night and cannot fall asleep! For this client, talking books have brought a new world into her living room and have given her a new hobby to enjoy.
Talking books (also called books on tape) offer a new world for many individuals with vision problems, especially those who are homebound and have little interactions with others. Once qualified through the Talking Book Library (see information in last paragraph), a reading machine similar to a tape recorder is provided. The individual then initially selects a preference of books, authors and subject matter. "Books" then begin arriving through the U.S. mail on a scheduled basis. The books are read to the listener via the tape. After the book is read, the address card on the front of the delivery box is turned over and postman accepts the book for return.
Talking books bring a world of entertainment and enjoyment into the homes of many individuals with vision problems. Best sellers, classics, magazines and other subject matter are available to help pass time and make days more interesting. Most libraries also have books on tape available to those who have friends or family to pick up the books. If you know of someone with vision difficulties who might be interested in talking books, offer to pick tapes up at the library or to help set them up with an account at the Talking Book Library.
For those who qualify (a medical survey must be completed and authorized by a physician), the Talking Book Library provides the service at no charge. Contact the library in your area for more information. Check with the local vision foundation or your physician for additional information.
Copyright 2011 Pamela D. Wilson, All Rights Reserved.
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