Ken: Using Technology for His Independence

Ken has significant vision loss, and his wife has dementia. In the photo, Lighthouse Ken shows off the Alexa Show device the Lighthouse helped him obtain so family members can “drop in” to check on him.

A Lighthouse occupational therapist, a Lighthouse technology instructor, and a MN State Services for the Blind counselor worked together to get Ken the equipment and training he needs so he can access newspaper, recipes, perform cooking and daily living tasks – and even still get out to attend UMD Bulldog games that are important to him. 

Ken learned how to use the Echo Show to access recipes by voice, and how to use zoom function to read recipes.  He also uses its “show and tell feature” to ID canned foods and labels. Through voice access on calendar, he can manage his appointments, making phone calls through Echo.  Ken also learned to use a large electronic magnifier – a CCTV – to help with medication management and paying bills.

Other services included: technology instruction via Zoom with Lighthouse technology staff, so Ken could learn how to access the computer despite his low vision.  He learned how to use the Radio Talking Book app and the Duluth Newspaper app on his smartphone, so he could continue his love for reading. Ken also learned how to safely prepare meals despite his low vision, by using adaptive devices/technique.  We helped him connect with local para transport services for transportation, and he connected with the Lighthouse support group and the peer-to-peer program.