January Newsletter 281
Some of the best technology for the visually impaired
Some of the best technology that helps assistor help someone who has trouble with their vision. It can include things like braille, navigation aids like canes or more high-tech props to help the visually impaired have a degree of independence. Find an overview of some of the best here:
https://interestingengineering.com/7-of-the-best-tech-for-the-impaired
Diet linked to vision loss in later life
A new study spanning nearly 2 decades has found a link between an unhealthy diet and vision loss in older age. Should we be keeping more of an eye on what we eat?
A robust body of research has shown that a diet rich in red meat, fried foods, high fat dairy, processed meats, and refined grains is bad for the heart and linked to the development of cancer.
However, not many people consider the impact of diet on their eyesight.
A new study, now appearing in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, has found a link between a diet rich in unhealthy foods and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
AMD is a condition that impacts the retina with age, blurring central vision. Central vision helps people see objects clearly and perform everyday activities such as reading and driving. Using data on 66 different food types, the researchers identified two diet patterns: one they dubbed “Prudent,” or healthful, and one they dubbed “Western,” which included a high intake of “processed and red meat, fried food, dessert, eggs, refined grains, high fat dairy, and sugar sweetened beverages.”
https://dunyanews.tv/en/Health/525851-Unhealthful-diet-linked-vision-loss-later-life
Blind Harry Potter fan reads again thanks to a smart camera
An 11-year-old girl who lost her sight is able to read her favourite Harry Potter books again after being given a £3,500 smart camera.
Ann-Marie, from Southend, went blind after she was diagnosed with brain cancer three years ago.
The technology reads the text for her and it can also recognise faces, products and colours.