Living with Vision Loss Podcast
Episode 6: How Can I Magnify Print for Reading? Size Magnification on iPhones & iPads
Host: Dawn Ciccarone, MS OTR/L, CLVT
Episode Type: Educational / How-To
Duration: ~5:43 minutes
Episode Summary
In this episode, Dawn begins answering the most common question she hears: How can I read again? She explains that the answer depends on multiple factors including acuity (print size), contrast (colors you can see), visual field (how much of the picture you can see), and your reading goals. Dawn covers size magnification options including iPads, large print books, and how to adjust font size and use the Zoom feature on your iPhone or iPad. She also introduces the concept of critical print size and explains why magnification always involves a trade-off with field of view.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
- The factors that determine which reading solution is right for you
- How reading devices are selected based on acuity, visual field, contrast, and goals
- Why iPads are excellent for reading with low vision
- How to increase font size on your iPhone or iPad
- How to use the Zoom feature (double tap with three fingers)
- What critical print size means and why it matters
- How dark mode can help reduce glare
- The trade-off between magnification and field of view
Who Is This Podcast For?
- People living with low vision or vision loss
- Family members and caregivers supporting loved ones with visual impairments
- Friends who want to understand how to help
- Healthcare professionals seeking to better understand low vision
- Occupational therapists and rehabilitation specialists
Factors That Determine Your Reading Solution
Selecting the right device depends on:
- Acuity – What print size can you see?
- Contrast – What colors can you see?
- Visual Field – How much of the picture can you see? Are parts of letters missing?
- Reading Goals – What do you want to read? (books, prices at the store, mail, etc.)
- Environment – Where do you want to read? (at home, at the store, on the go)
- Legal Blindness Status – If you can't see print, other options like audio are available
Size Magnification Options
iPad for Reading
iPads are excellent for people with low vision because you can:
- Increase the size of book print
- Increase contrast
- Access books through Amazon or the Libby app (free library books)
- Listen to audiobooks if you have reduced visual field or are legally blind
Large Print Books
A low-tech option for people who need approximately 16 point font. If you have reduced contrast, adding a light on the book can help.
How to Increase Font Size on iPhone/iPad
First, get your critical print size from your low vision doctor. Then:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size
- Select "Larger Text" and adjust the font to match your print size
How to Use the Zoom Feature on iPhone/iPad
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Zoom
- Turn on Zoom
- Select "Zoom Region" (not Zoom Window) for full-screen magnification
- Double tap the screen with three fingers to activate zoom
- Double tap again with three fingers to return to normal size
- Hold the phone horizontally to see more information on screen
Tip: The Zoom feature is easier to learn on an iPad first before using it on a phone.
Dark Mode for Glare Sensitivity
If you are sensitive to light and glare, try dark mode on your phone. This displays white print on a black background, which reduces glare for many people with low vision.
Important: Magnification and Field of View
When you magnify, you lose field of view. The bigger the print on your screen, the less you can see at once. This is why some people lose their place when using magnification. Understanding this trade-off helps you use magnification devices more effectively.
Coming in the Next Episode
Dawn will demonstrate four optical magnification devices for reading:
- Microscopes
- Prism glasses
- Handheld magnifiers
- Stand magnifiers
Pictures of these devices will be included in the next episode's show notes.
About Your Host
Dawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT is a Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) and licensed Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience helping people with vision loss live independently. She works directly with patients in clinical settings, developing personalized strategies to help them accomplish the activities that matter most to them.
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Keywords: how to read with low vision, size magnification, low vision reading, iPad for low vision, iPhone accessibility, increase font size iPhone, Zoom feature iPhone, critical print size, large print books, Libby app, dark mode low vision, magnification and field of view, low vision devices, reading with macular degeneration, legally blind reading options, audiobooks for blind
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on the Living with Vision Loss Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, ophthalmologist, optometrist, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
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