Living with Vision Loss Podcast

Episode 8: How Can Video Magnification Help You Read at Work, School & Home?

Host: Dawn Ciccarone, MS OTR/L, CLVT

Episode Type: Educational / Product Guide

Episode Summary

Dawn explains why video magnification is one of the most popular solutions for people with vision loss who want to read again at work, school, or home. Unlike optical magnifiers, video magnifiers let you adjust magnification daily (up to 60x), change contrast colors, and see more words on the screen without losing field of view. Dawn shares her three favorite portable video magnifiers and discusses cost considerations and funding options.

Why Video Magnification Is Popular

1. Adjust magnification daily
2. Change contrast to the color you see best
3. See more words on the screen — magnify without losing field of view

Dawn's Three Favorite Video Magnifiers

1. Ruby XL HD (Freedom Scientific)

1. Tilt screen — lay flat on paper or switch to handle for medicine bottles
2. Multiple contrast modes, adjustable magnification
3. Great portable option for work; smaller screen limits high magnification

2. Explore 12 (Humanware)

1. Simple controls: orange button for contrast, +/- buttons for size
2. Larger screen = more words visible at high magnification
3. Optional stand for writing under the camera

3. Clover Book Pro

1. Lightweight, portable with both near and distance cameras
2. Distance camera sees presentations, whiteboards, teacher's face
3. Ideal for classroom or office meeting settings

Things to Consider

1. Match the device to your goals - Video magnification is like shoe shopping. Find the right fit.
2. Try before you buy — Evaluations typically last 1–1.5 hours
3. Cost — Devices range from $900–$3,000; not covered by insurance

Funding Options

1. Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (state agency)
2. Lions Club
3. Church organizations
4. Your employer (workplace accommodations)
5. Your school (student accommodations)

Brands Mentioned

1. Freedom Scientific
2. Humanware
3. Optelec
4. Low Vision International

Resources

Questions or for information about the Clover Book Pro email [email protected]

YouTube - Search Living with Vision Loss Dawn Ciccarone to view devices

Questions about purchasing video magnification devices from Freedom Scientific, Humanware, Optelec or Low Vision International email Nick Peterson at [email protected]

About Your Host

Dawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT is a Certified Low Vision Therapist and Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience helping people with vision loss live independently.

Connect & Subscribe

Subscribe to the Living with Vision Loss Podcast. Contact Dawn on LinkedIn with questions or [email protected]

Keywords: video magnification, video magnifier, CCTV for low vision, Ruby XL HD, Explore 12, Clover Book Pro, Freedom Scientific, Humanware, portable video magnifier, low vision at work, low vision at school, magnifier with contrast, distance camera magnifier

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your physician or low vision specialist before making treatment decisions.

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