Tag Archives: accessibility

Can You  Feel the Beat? My 4 Tips to a Healthy Hart

Daily Living, Health and Wellness, Special Observations, , , , ,
A female doctor listening to her female patient's heartbeat

February is  not only the month for romantic love and cute little Valentines  but American Heart Month. It is important to focus on our actual hearts  and keep them as healthy and strong as possible.

Family History and Racial Background

I became more aware of my own heart health when my father passed away from heart disease. Later discovering it was a family condition as my paternal grandfather and uncle  all died of the same thing. Then just a few months ago my older cousin died of a heart condition. So, you see how important this issue is for me.

Red and white roses on a casket in the back of a white hearse on a bright sunny day

To add extra fuel to the fire, I am more at risk as a Black working age adult. Black Americans are twice  as likely to die from hart conditions as other racial groups. Now, knowing all of these factors could be depressing. But knowledge is power. When you know something you can do something. So, what am I doing? Well, besides blabbing about it here on my blog, here are 4  tips I am making to have a healthier heart.

1. Check My Blood Pressure

Empish using a talking blood pressure monitor with cuff on her arm

For years I have struggled with high blood pressure. It has been one of those things I  don’t get too discouraged by but work on constantly. I know that adding extra stress to my life by worrying  will only increase it.

I know that high blood pressure is directly connected to having a healthy heart thus avoiding heart attacks and disease. As a matter of fact, the American Heart Association says the excess strain and resulting damage from high blood pressure causes the coronary arteries serving the heart to slowly become narrowed from plaque causing a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances.

I mitigate this challenge by using an accessible blood pressure monitor and knowing my numbers. My blood pressure monitor talks and gives my numbers audibly. I record them on an Excel spreadsheet so I can   monitor any fluctuations. But  tracking these numbers is not enough. You gotta know What they represent and how they connect to yor life. So, I have learned what the top and bottom numbers mean  and if my pressure is high or normal.

2. Exercise on a Regular Basis

Empish doing arm exercises with hand weights

back in 2003 I created a home gym. I had stopped going to gyms long ago when I lost my vision because they weren’t very accessible. All my equipment is placed right in front of my entertainment center so I can either watch TV or listen to my music CDs while I work out. I have even placed one of my audiobook players nearby to listen while I exercise.

Empish on Treadmill

On a typical week I work out about 3-4times alternating between my treadmill, exercise bike, floor mat and hand weights. I am still making efforts to lose weight but I feel so much better that I created my own home gym to exercise. Whether it rains, snows or is sunny outside it does not matter. Whether a friend comes to workout with me it does not matter. I have everything I need set up in my home so I can do it independently and when I want.

3. Eating More Plant Based Meals

vegetable salad on plate with other veggies on table.

I made changes to my meal plan and have move more into a plant base diet. This change surprisingly has been easy because fruits and vegetables are my jam. Typically, I eat a salad everyday as part of my lunch. Filling my salad bowl  with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli and even green bell peppers and onions with a sprinkling of chopped nuts.

Empish is smiling and standing in kitchen with hand on her air fryer. She is wearing a white kitchen apron and the air fryer is on the counter with plate and seasonings.

I also have added more flavor to my cooking . I use no salt seasonings and spices. When I do break out the saltshaker it is a low sodium variety. Once my food is seasoned I sometimes use an air frier for cooking instead of always using my gas stove. My air frier has been a God sent  because I can get that crunchy texture without the fatty oil.

4. Reduce Stress, Anxiety and Anger

It is easy for us to just deal with the physical things in life. We can read  all the tips and tricks to have a healthy heart. Yet,   miss the stress  cues. Living everyday is hard  and stuff  piles up causing anxiety and even anger. Staying calm and relaxed   is hard to do when stressed out.

Empish sitting on mat in a yoga prayer pose

Like in the AA meetings, I recognize I have a problem. I don’t deny  what I am feeling. Next I pray and  give it to God. Admittedly, that doesn’t always work. Sometimes I will journal and release it on the computer page. I will also call up a trusted friend and vent. Yes, it is good to release some occasional steam. Especially with a person who gives you a save space and can relate.

Regardless of your family history  or racial background having a healthy heart is critical to survival. Can you feel the beat? Now that you know What I am doing to keep my heart healthy  share your tips and tricks too.

7 Reasons I Love My Local Public Library

Daily Living, Literature, Special Observations, , , , , , , ,
A Caucasian woman is reading a book while holding it in her hands. The book covers most of her face where only her hair and eyes are visible. She is standing in front of a wall of books at the library.

February is  known as the month for romantic love.  We wear the color red and give special things to our sweetheart.  But who’s to say we can’t fall in love with our public library too.

National Library Lovers Month

Books on desk with cup of tea

February is also National Library Lovers Month where the focus is on reading and the institutions that provide books. It is a time to honor and recognize the important role that libraries play in the community. For my reading enjoyment, there are two go-to libraries I personally use. The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled and Bookshare.

But there is also a third option. I use my public library right in my neighborhood. Although I  am blind, this library is inclusive and available for everyone. Here’s 7 reasons why.

Books in Alternative Format

1.  Local public libraries supply books in audio format and large print. Their collection might be limited but it is available. I have checked out books on CD many times from my public library and members of my book club have gotten the large print version. Also, books are available in electronic format in audio and ePub on smartphone apps. My favorite one is Hoopla. It is fairly accessible with Voiceover on my iPhone. I can check out a certain number of books, magazines, movies and music per month via my public library card. Plus I can get them through instant download so there is no wait time. WooHoo!

Low Vision Aides and Devices

2.  Some public libraries offer low vision aids and devices. Hand-held magnifiers, CC-TVs and magnifying screen overlays can be found to assist with reading printed materials while at the library. If you are low vision ask about these devices at the circulation desk.

Stay Connected to Community

3.  The public library helps me stay connected to my community. Sometimes being visually impaired is isolating and struggling to connect is hard. Many times, I have attended events like county/city meetings, forums and town halls. At these events I have not only kept up with current happenings but made connections and bult relationships with people in my community.

Voting

4.  Many public libraries are voting precincts use for early voting and special elections. I have voted several times at my local public library. I have found it easier, faster and more convenient to vote there than the precinct on my voter’s registration card. Contact your voter’s registration office for more details on this option.

Empish at Paper Voting Machine Demo

As a side note. A couple of years ago my public library conducted a demonstration of the new paper ballot machines when they were rolling out in my state. I attended and learned how to vote with the new machines and was ready to go when the next election came up.

Classes and Events

Empish and the Author, Noel Holston at Library Book Signing
Empish and the Author, Noel Holston at Library Book Signing

5.  Public libraries host special classes and events. At my library I have attended so many special community events. For example, I went to an arts and crafts class where I learned how to make homemade sugar scrub. There have also been classes like yoga, personal finance, home ownership, and even movie nights. Over the past several years I have attended numerous author lecture discussions where the author will do a reading and Q&A afterward. I especially love these author events because I get to engage with the author, learn about their latest book and get it signed. Book festivals are another library special event. These events bring out tons of book lovers and enthusiast. You get to hear lots of authors share about their books, get them signed and interact with others like yourself.

Book Discussions

6.  Public libraries host monthly book discussions. Besides reading books, I love attending book discussions. I attend two  at my public library. We meet monthly via Zoom because of the pandemic. But before COVID we met in person, one met at the library and the other met at a local restaurant for dinner and discussion.

Passes to Cultural Activities

7.  Some libraries offer free passes to the zoo, parks and museums. These passes are typically first come first serve. Just ask the librarian at the circulation desk for more details.

You’ve Got Mail! US Postal Service Offers Programs for the Disabled

Daily Living, Special Observations, , , ,
A mail truck parked on a street in a residential neighborhood.

I never saw the 1998 romcom, “You’ve Got Mail” but  I understand the title. Receiving mail  can be thrilling and exciting. Opening a package  or letter from a friend or love one brings positive feelings. Of course, unless it’s the bill collector! Otherwise most people are happy to receive mail. People with vision loss share the same sentiment but with  a little stress. This is because  we can’t always read the package or letter. Sometimes we don’t even know mail has arrived. Or we have difficulties  retrieving the mail  from the mailbox. So, what is the solution?

The US Postal Service recognizes  some of these problems. They have provided services  the blind and disability community can use. Saturday, Feb. 4 is National Thank a Mail Carrier Day and in honor of this observation I will share these options and how they benefit my life.

1. Free Matter for the Blind

This program allows eligible participants to receive and send mail for free. Mail that qualifies as Free Matter includes large print documents, braille, audio recordings and talking book players.

When I worked at the Center for the Visually Impaired, we qualified for this program. We could send  materials to blind and visual impaired clients  free. The cool thing is it works both ways.

Display of NLS Talking Book Player, Cartridges and Earbuds
Display of NLS Talking Book Player, Cartridges and Earbuds

I can receive items from organizations serving the blind and mail them back for free. I get  blind products and audiobooks  plus audio described movies from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Impaired. I don’t have to pay postage to send those items back.

Also, I have used the program when mailing my white cane for repair  to a local orientation and mobility instructor. I will place the cane in a packing envelope and take to the post office. There they will stamp it free matter and mail it.

2. Deliver Mail to Your Door

Called disability delivery or doorstep delivery. This service is available if a person is unable to retrieve their mail from a mail unit . I qualified because I  am blind and live in a subdivision where the mail  is delivered to one  location instead of each individual house. This location is unsafe for me to travel. Instead, my mail is delivered to my front door.

Row of about 8 residential style mailboxes

To apply I had to write a letter explaining my situation and provide medical documentation of my disability. Once I was approved I had to install, at my home, a certified US Postal Service mailbox which I found at a local home improvement store. The mailbox is next to my front door with my house number clearly displayed.

3. Informed Delivery

This program is not specific for the disabled but we benefit anyway. Once you sign up, the US Postal Service will send a daily email  with scanned images of the mail you are to receive  that day or in the next couple of days. This includes letters and packages. Although I can’t see the images  I  can read the text with my screen reader notifying me mail is on the way. I don’t check my mailbox daily so this service gives me advance notice. Plus I know who the mail is coming from so if I am expecting something important I know it ahead of time.

When it comes to mail these programs make living with a visual disability a little easier. When I get my notice you’ve got mail I feel very little stress or anxiety. Thanks US Postal Service.

Not All Blind People Read Braille and Here’s Why

Daily Living, Literature, Special Observations, , , , , , ,
Empish Reading Braille Calendar with Her Fingers

Braille Literacy  Month is almost over and I am sharing  another post on the topic. Most people think  if a person is blind, which includes low vision and total blindness, they must know and read braille. For those that think this, I am about to burst your bubble because not all blind people read braille.

Some might ask if braille is a useful tool for reading and writing why don’t all blind people use it? If it opens up literacy, employment and independence  what is the problem? Well, there are several reasons why a blind person might not access this tool. But before I give those reasons let me clarify one point.

Decrease in Braille Reading Overall

Empish Using an iPhone

Braille reading is decreasing  overall because of advancements in technology. Devices like smartphones, audiobooks, and screen readers  allow blind people to access information electronically  verses reading printed braille. However, there are electronic braille devices like note takers and refreshable braille displays but a knowledge of braille is still required for their usage.

5 Reasons Blind People Don’t Read Braille

1. Braille is harder to learn later in life. There is a saying you can’t teach old dogs new tricks, and there is a nugget of truth in that statement. Learning braille is much like learning to read when you were a kid. You learned alphabets and numbers. then move to words and phrases. Lastly sentences and paragraphs. Although you were young and could learn quickly, it still took work, time  and tons of practice. Braille is no different. So, some older adults find it hard because of the work  and practice it takes to be proficient.

A braille watch is on the wrist of one hand with the top open. While the other hand figures out the time by pressing a finger on the raised display.

2. Medical reasons make it hard to read braille. IF a person has diabetic retinopathy, stroke   side affects or other  issues with their fingers and hands braille is hard to learn and read. It takes a light touch to read the dot formations. Even though the dots are raised  they are small and a sensitive finger is needed to read properly.

3. There are social stigmas  and stereotypes about blindness. Much like using a white cane, reading braille is one of them. If a person is seen reading braille the assumption is they are blind. Some people don’t want to have that label or disclose their visual disability  in such a public way. So, they won’t access it.

Empish Holding White Cane at Street Intersection

4. Regardless of social perceptions, reading braille is a personal acceptance of  having a disability. If a blind person has a negative attitude or is in denial about their disability, braille will be the last thing on their mind. Braille has such a strong association with blindness. Only after embracement will they be more open minded.

5. IF a person has  some eyesight  they might not read braille. Some who are low vision and can read with large print or magnification  might not learn braille. The idea is they have enough vision to do without it. But if  they are increasing the magnification to the point only a few words are on the screen or in the book, reading becomes unenjoyable, laborious and difficult. Also, reading comprehension skills suffer. But because they are not totally blind  there is little encouragement to learn braille.

My Own Braille Journey

I have been a part of the blind community for about 25 years and spent 10 of them working at a vision rehabilitation center. From my own personal  journey with braille and work experience  these 5 reasons  are my observations  and answer to the question why  blind people don’t read braille.

A black and white braille label gun with turn dial displaying both braille and print letters and numbers.
A black and white braille label gun with turn dial displaying both braille and print letters and numbers.

I am not a strong proficient braille reader. I made several attempts over the years  but  was not successful. I have enough braille knowledge to do the things that I need to for my life. That being proficient in alphabetic Braille is enough for now. I realize that reading books and magazines is a great thing to want to achieve but in all honesty my life is busy and I don’t have the time. I have learned to be okay with that.

Social Pressure to Read Braille

I also discovered that part of wanting to be a strong braille reader was because of social pressure. As a blind person you are supposed to be proficient in braille. That is what everyone expects and even sometimes demands. People are genuinely surprise when they hand me a book or document and I tell them I am not able to fully read it. There is this perception that braille automatically goes with blindness-no questions asked.

So whether you want to or not. Whether it makes sense or not. Whether you can or not. You do it or die trying! HaHa! That is what I was doing. I was trying hard to live up to this expectation that really did not fit who and what I am. I was not being authentic and true to myself.

4 Ways Pharmacists Provide Accessible Prescriptions to the Blind

Daily Living, Health and Wellness, Special Observations, Technology, , , ,
Empish standing at the counter of her local pharmacy

The last two  weeks I have been struggling to get a prescription filled. Usually when I call my doctor my medication is ready in a couple of days for pickup from my local pharmacy. However, a new computer system  is causing the delay. As of this writing I am still without my medication. Going through this has caused me to reflect on the importance of  pharmacies and the people who work there. Yesterday, Jan. 12, was National Pharmacist day. I have been fortunate to have a good working relationship with my local pharmacy  and they know me by name.

Pharmacist Helped During Pandemic

Even when COVID  was at its peak the pharmacist  was very helpful and considerate of my disability. For example, when  the vaccine was first available the online forms to get a COVID shot were complicated. The online form also was timed which made it hard to complete quickly with my screen reader. My pharmacist  allowed me to bypass  this process and schedule my vaccines over the phone.

A prescription bottle laying on the side with medication spilling out.

My pharmacist also personally assisted me with  finding supplies to make it through  COVID. Products like Ibuprofen, rubbing alcohol  and hydrogen peroxide  were items highly recommended during those hard and difficult days. All of those supplies came in handy when I was overcoming the side affects of my COVID vaccine  and booster shots.

Pharmacist Sensitive to My Disability

I remember many years ago one of my regular meds changed. The shape and feel of the pill was different. My pharmacist alerted me. She was sensitive and aware of my visual disability and wanted me to be mindful so I could be confident I was taking the correct medication.

Besides these efforts to provide accommodations directly to me, pharmacies  offer free  accessible  prescription labels and info  to the blind community. This form of accessibility was established by the US Access Board’s Working Group on Accessible Prescription Labels and the FDA Safety & Innovation Act. Pharmacies responded to this government mandate  with the following measures:

1. Walgreens

Pill Reminder Device for prescriptions

Walgreen’s exclusively provides the Talking Pill Reminder. It’s a plastic disc with adhesive stickers to securely attach to the bottom of a prescription medicine bottle. The pharmacist records the info and  sticks the device to the medication bottle.

2. Envision America

Envision America provides an electronic medication label  called ScripTalk. This label is scanned and read from an app on a smartphone or the ScripTalk device.

Pill Reminder with labels

3. CVS  Pharmacy

CVS provides SpokenRX. Much like ScripTalk, this option also uses an audio label placed onto your prescriptions that are scanned and read by the CVS SpokenRX app from a  smartphone.

4. Accessible Pharmacy

Accessible Pharmacy sends medications and supplies through mail order. They deliver accessible devices, such as ScripTalk, large print  and braille labels; and special packaging options.

A prescription bottle with medication and a Pill Reminder attached to the top.

All of these efforts to make prescription drugs accessible gives blind folks independence and privacy. Plus avoiding serious problems like an overdose  or missed dosage. We all want to stay healthy and well so be sure to thank  your pharmacist.

How Much Do You Know About Braille? Learn More Reading These 15 Facts

Daily Living, Special Observations, , , , , , ,
Empish Reading Braille

January is the time we, in the blind community, celebrate Braille Literacy Month. Braille is a code created for reading and writing. This code, which is a series of raised dots on paper, has revolutionized the lives of people with vision loss because it has opened doors of literacy, education, employment, and independence.

History of Braille

Additionally, Louis Braille’s birthday was on Jan. 4 and this date is recognized internationally as World Braille Day. Braille was a Frenchman who lost his vision from an accident as a small child. His family enrolled him in the Royal Institution for Blind Youth in Paris. As a teenager there, Braille began the process to create a reading and writing system by touch. He continued to perfect the system and as an adult became an instructor at the Institution. Unfortunately, Braille’s method was not accepted by the sighted instructors and he died in 1852 never seeing his creation used by the blind.

Eventually, the code was accepted and today this system of raised dots is used all over the world. Yet, people still don’t know the story of the braille code  and why it is important. So, let’s get ready to learn more facts. Here are some interesting tidbits provided by the Perkins School for the Blind. Let’s see how much you really know about this writing and reading code.

15 Facts About Braille

Empish Reading Braill Bathroom Sign

1. Did you know braille was originally used by the French military not the blind? It was called “night writing.” Developed in 1819 by Charles Barbier and the French army, this system allowed soldiers to communicate at night without being detected.

2. Did you know Braille is a tactile code not a language? Many languages like Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Hebrew and of course, English can be written and read in braille.

3. Did you know braille is made up of 6 raised dots? Braille words and symbols are composed in a cell with a variation of those 6 dots.

4. Did you know every letter, number, punctuation and symbol can be written in braille? This also includes music , mathematical and scientific symbols.

5. Did you know braille labeling  and info is available for prescription drugs? A clear braille overlay is added by the pharmacist on top of the existing prescription medication label. This form of accessibility was set by the US Access Board’s Working Group on Accessible Prescription Labels and the FDA Safety & Innovation Act.

A display of various accessible games on a table. Games include Connect Four, Braille Uno cards and Braille Dominos.

6. Did you know there are toys and games with braille? Some of the biggest classic family games like Uno, Monopoly and LEGO are all available in braille. Even when Mattel added the  Helen Keller doll to their Inspiring Women Series Keller was holding a braille book.

7. Did you know the original braille code didn’t include the letter “w”? The French alphabet doesn’t have the letter “w” but it was added later when using other languages.

8. Did you know some braille readers  can read faster than a sighted person? While a sighted person can read 300 words per minute, some fast braille readers can speed through a book at 400 words per minute. This is because of a light touch  and using both hands-one hand reads while the other is positioned to start on the next line.

Empish wearing red top with matching red braille facemask

9. Did you know braille is on consumer goods? Online you can purchase braille greeting cards, facemasks, jewelry, beauty supplies and candy. Just do a simple search and explore the options.

10. Did you know Braille takes up more space than print? One page of print is about 2 pages of braille. When I had a braille Bible it was like a set of printed encyclopedias.

11. Did you know there are two forms  of braille? uncontracted braille , Grade 1 or Alphabetic Braille, uses all 26 letters of the alphabet and is often used by children or people who are first learning to read and write. Contracted braille , Grade 2 or Literary Braille, is more complex  and most commonly used. It is a shorter version of braille

12. Did you know the word braille is not capitalized? Only when referring to Louis Braille is the word in caps. Although, some blind people disagree and capitalize braille regardless.

13. Did you know there’s an asteroid named Braille? In 1999, NASA’s Deep Space 1 probe flew past an asteroid while on its way to photograph the Borrelly comet. NASA named the asteroid 9969 Braille in honor of Louis Braille.

Empish at ATM

14. Did you know braille is on the keypad of  bank ATMs including their drive-throughs? The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates all ATMs must be accessible to people with visual impairments. This includes drive-through ATMs  even though blind people can’t drive. This directive ensures blind passengers sitting in a vehicle’s back seat can reach the ATM and independently make a transaction.

15. Did you know most blind people don’t read braille? Many people who lose vision as  adults may not know braille. You can learn even more about this in my next post on braille later this month.

Be honest. How much did you know about braille before reading this post? A whole lot or very little? Well, hopefully you learned more than you did before reading. It is important that all people regardless of vision level learn about the importance and power of braille.

Need Reminding? Never Forget with Accessible Technology Devices

Daily Living, Special Observations, Technology, Work Life, , , , , , ,
Empish using iPhone
A closeup of various newspaper headlines

This past week I read a news article about the increase in people sending text messages to themselves as reminders. I had to smile  and nod my head  while reading the article because I have been doing something similar for years. Plus, today, Jan. 6 is National Technology Day and I use accessible technology  to never forget important  tasks I need to do.

Writing Reminders From Childhood and College

I am an organized person and like to create lists and reminders to track all  my activities. It started from  childhood. Everyday when I got home from school there  was a note  from my mother. She would leave me a to do list to complete before she got home from work.

Then in college I got a  day planner. It was in a beautiful 5×7 size red leather  carrying case. There I would keep up with  reminders and things to do. I toted that day planner around all the time constantly writing myself reminders.

Clipboard  for Reminders and Notes

As I slowly  started losing my vision, I moved to low vision tools. They included magnification software and devices. But more importantly was writing supplies like bold lined notebook paper and pens. I used them all the time  because of the high contrast and to compose reminders.

Hands are writing with pen and notepad. They are using an accessible clipboard for the blind with a metal bar to slide down for each line on paper.

I used a specialized clipboard to securely hold paper or  a notepad  . This  particular clipboard was designed with a metal bar on the left side for accessibility. I used it to write straight on the line otherwise my writing would go allover the place. It would be up and down or it would be on top of what I had already written. The metal bar has an open space for writing directly on the paper. As I wrote I could move the metal bar down a notch to proceed to the next line.

Phone and Email  for Reminders

Empish Using a Landline Phone

After I went totally blind, I didn’t use the clipboard with the metal bar as much. I moved to leaving reminder messages on my answering machine and voice mail. I would leave reminders  of things to do  when I got home while I was at work. I would also do the opposite by leaving work reminders while I was at home. One of my first things to do at work, besides turning on my computer, was to check voice mail. The reminder messages would be there for me to listen and take note.

I would also do this same with emails. Sending messages to myself back and forth from home to work. So, when I checked my messages those reminder emails would be right there in my in box.

Other Technology Devices

Empish Working in Home Office

Today, I work from home so sending myself reminders via phone and email doesn’t apply. Instead I keep a Microsoft Word document open titled, “things to do.” There I jot down notes and reminders. I also use my smartphone. There are many reminder apps on the market. But I just use my calendar app which provides a reminder feature. I can add an alert to a calendar event  sending me an audible notification. I also use my voice memo app to record  those brilliant writing ideas I get at 3 a.m. in the morning. This post was one of them. HaHa!

Empish Using an iPhone

Also current messaging apps integrate well  with the sharing menu on your phone making it simple to transfer  info. Plus, the article eluded to  a self text message feature in WhatsApp.

Got the Memory of an Elephant?

Not everyone has the memory of an elephant. I know sending reminders to yourself might sound strange or ridiculous yet it can be a good productivity  strategy. Most of us got a lot going on and distractions are constantly around. I believe in using accessible devices to make my life simpler, easier and more efficient.

What reminder devices or tools do you use? How do you keep up with your activities  so you don’t forget?

How I Got My Own Personal Audio Describer for  the Lion King

Art and Culture, Daily Living, Entertainment, Special Observations, , , , , , , ,
A lion head with a huge shaggy mane

While I was watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade last month it was announced  the Lion King  was celebrating 25 years of its theatrical production. I recalled the first time I saw the Lion King. It was the animated version and I was totally sighted. I remember the incredible music and visual affects. A friend even purchased the original soundtrack and we would listen to it  during our car rides around town.

Missed First Production But Went to Second

Of course, this was many years ago and I am blind today. But my vision loss didn’t stop me. When I heard the theatrical production was coming to my local theater I had to go. The first time the production came I missed it waiting on a friend. By the time we got  to ordering the tickets it was sold out. I was very disappointed.

I promised myself next time to grab a ticket immediately and not wait around. So, when they came back again that is exactly what I did. Lesson learned. I was sitting on my sofa watching TV and the commercial came on announcing the Lion King was coming back to Atlanta. WooHoo! I ran to the phone and got out my credit card to buy a ticket. I didn’t even tell anyone, I just did it.

Excited About Live Audio Description

When I was purchasing my ticket the representative told me the production was available in audio description. I was elated. I was already familiar with how it brought movies and TV to life. I had also used audio description for plays  and musicals so I was aware of live audio description. It is very similar  to TV and movies but you get to engage with the audio describer right there in the theater. I would wear a headset to hear the description and the describer would be located nearby in the theater  giving me info on what was happening on stage. I was even more motivated to go. To see this wonderful production and then to have it audio described! Well, it just beat all.

Confusion About Audio Description

Two women have a sign language conversation at a table.

ON the day of the performance an usher guided me over to the deaf and hard of hearing section. I was confused because I am not deaf nor hard of hearing. Unfortunately, things like this happen all the time to me and my community. People lump the blind and deaf together as if we have the same disability. I have had friends  tell me of times people thought they needed a sign language interpreter. Or people talking really loud  to us as if we have  hearing loss. I mean it goes on and on. So, although I was confused I was not totally surprised.

I asked the usher about audio description and  now they were the one confused. I explained what audio description was and how it worked for the blind. The usher  didn’t know what to do so got a manager. While I waited I talked to the real time captioner for the deaf. I knew her from disability events where she  would do captioning. This type of technology reduces the need for multiple sign language interpreters  because the captioner would use a device to type and the words would appear on the screen for several deaf people to read at one time.

Got Personal  Describer

While we were chatting and catching up the manager came over to apologize. He told me there was a mistake and I was told wrong. There would be no audio description after all. He was deeply sorry for the misunderstanding and embarrassment. As I was processing this news another man came over to introduce himself. He told me he was a professional audio describer  and was here to observe the captioning process. He said he would be happy to audio describe the production for me. So, I went from major displeasure to major  happiness in a matter of a few minutes.

Described All the Sights and sounds

audience of people facing a stage watching a play. There is one person on stage surrounded by furniture.

We decided to move away from the crowd and sit closer to the corner of the room. It was a good spot for him to see everything  and to also talk in my ear without disturbing people around us. The production began with the animals coming down the aisle  moving toward the stage. It was just like in the movie  where all the animals  travel to Pride Rock for the ceremony of Simba. He described the vibrant and colorful costumes. He described the fluent body movements of the dancers  as animals. He described all the sights and sounds. It was amazing! Who knew I would have my own personal audio describer sitting right next to me.

He even described the dancers who pretended to be  grass and water. They were dressed in green. They had these fan-like objects in their hands also in green. This was to simulate the tall moving grass from the movie. It was the same set up for water. The dancers were in blue and moved their bodies simulating water flowing. He described other dancers dressed in animal costumes and how they moved around the stage just like the animal  they  mimicked.

A giraffe with an extended long neck

I was truly captivated by the creativity  of the production and talent of the dancers and actors. It was literally just like in the animated version. Since I was sighted when I saw the movie  I use my visual memories. Along with those memories and an excellent audio describer, I had a wonderful time. What started out as a disappointment turned into  an exciting moment for me.

Watched Movie on Disney+

Empish watching TV. She is sitting on sofa pointing remote control at TV.

This past week, to honor the 25th anniversary, I watched the movie again. It was available through Disney+ in audio description. Of course, it was different from the live theatrical production with my own personal describer. Who could match that? However, it was enjoyable all the same. Hakuna Matata!

Watching Audio Described Holiday Movies Will Put Some Ho Ho in Your Christmas

Daily Living, Entertainment, Special Observations, , , , , , ,
Christmas tree fully decorated with presents underneath

Watching Movies Are Part of Holiday Season

What is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit? My answer is cuddling up with a mug of hot cocoa or the classic holiday three flavor popcorn tin  and laying on the sofa to watch a slew of Christmas movies. Everyone knows that watching a heartwarming holiday flick is one of the merriest parts of the season along with decorating the tree and baking grandma’s legendary cookie or brownie recipe.

Bowl of multi flavored popcorn sitting on a table. There is butter, cheddar and caramel flavors in the bowl.

Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional family holiday classic or a romantic Hallmark Christmas movie, there is something for everyone including the kids. View holiday romcoms, funny Christmas comedies and even Christmas horrors from the comfort of your home.

Christmas Movies Available in Audio Description

As a blind person how do I join in on the holiday spirit? How do I enjoy this merry tradition? Audio described movies and films are the ones I watch this season.

An audio described movie is when images, scenes, actions and descriptions of the actor’s appearance are described during natural pauses in the film. It allows me to know what is happening and enjoy the film along with everyone else. Audio description is available in a variety of mediums such as analog TV, streaming services, DVDs, cable, satellite and movie theaters.

Additionally, you can find audio description available at live theatrical performances and museums. The National Library Services for the Blind and Print Impaired offers a detailed resource guide on  audio description.

Audio Description at Home

Now, it’s time to make that Christmas movie list and don’t forget to check it twice. The Audio Description Project has created a  Christmas theme movie list. On their site they catalog the movie and streaming service such as Netflix, Apple TV+, Disney+, iTunes and Amazon Prime. They also list the traditional TV guide  for movies and films  that will air on TV and cable stations.

As the holidays approach this info will update, so check often for new movie titles. There is something for everyone regardless  of being naughty or nice.

Audio Description at the Movie Theater

Empish wearing audio description headset at movie theater

Don’t want to watch Christmas movies home alone? Rather have a jolly good time and watch a holiday flick at the theater? Audio description is available  at your local movie cinema. National chains such as AMC Theatres and Regal Cinema offer audio description for most blockbuster films. They will indicate that information on their website or app next to the title of the movie so you know in advance if it is audio described or not.

Once you arrive request the audio description headset at customer service. Be sure it is the one for people with vision loss because theaters do provide equipment for the deaf and hard of hearing as well. You should hear the audio description at the beginning of the film. If not contact a theater representative to assist you to correct the problem with your device.

Star shaped powder sugar cookies on a plate with cup of coco

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to watch an audio described movie. Each year more and more movies and films are available to the blind community. Don’t let the Grinch steal your holiday cheer. Throw on your ugly Christmas sweater, grab some snacks and enjoy the movies!

Georgia 2022 Runoff Election Was a Better Accessible Experience

Advocacy, Daily Living, Special Observations, Technology, , , , , , ,
Empish at Paper Voting Machine Demo

The 2022 runoff election  for Georgia will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 6. But I  participated in early voting and voted this week. I had just voted in the general election about  a month or so ago and had an awful experience. Fortunately, that experience was not a repeat. It was actually quite pleasant.

Reason for Runoff in Georgia

But before I share the good news, let me explain why there  is a runoff in Georgia in the first place. According to the Georgia election code  a candidate must win a majority of votes (50%+1) to be elected to office. If that doesn’t happen, a runoff election of the top two candidates is held.

Voting Booth

Additionally, here is a little history   from Voice of America to make things even more spicy. “The runoff system was instituted in 1964 after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a ruling that found Georgia’s election system violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution because votes cast in small rural counties counted more heavily than votes cast in large urban jurisdictions. A 2007 U.S. Interior Department study said Georgia’s runoff system was proposed to “circumvent” the Black voting bloc.”

I get it. This runoff is important to my state and to me as a Black woman. I have voted in runoff elections before and shared my experience here on my blog. I put up with the numerous phone calls, text messages, mailbox flyers and the endless volume of TV commercials. Also, this time around there were folks canvassing my subdivision. Twice in one week people came knocking on my door about voting.Didn’t Vote in Local Precinct

Empish Using a Landline Phone

Didn’t Vote in Local Precinct

The actual voting experience was pretty uneventful and I didn’t have too many problems. The reason being is that I didn’t vote in my local precinct. I have had numerous problems over the years  voting in my community. Frankly, I am about done with all of it. After the general election I was so frustrated I knew I had to do something different.

Voting at Headquarters a Better Experience

So, what I did was go and vote at my county headquarters  office. The commute was longer but well worth  it. I had no problems getting help with the paperwork. I  had no problems being escorted to the accessible voting machine or using it. No problems  casting my ballot. And no problems being escorted out of the precinct. As a matter of fact, the poll workers  looked out for me and made sure I connected to my transportation.

It was a noticeable difference. So, you know what I am doing moving forward? Voting at headquarters. This of course, means voting early. But that is not a problem because I do it anyway. What I really think is there is a major breakdown  between my local precinct  and headquarters. Something is truly off. Since I have been dealing with this for so long, I don’t have the bandwidth  to help them figure it out and correct the problem. So, in the future I will go  some place else.

Keeping up with political information and candidates is hard enough. I don’t need the extra. I believe all people should be able to vote independently, privately  and stress-free. This includes me too.