Access Technology Services
Technology is quickly paving a smoother path to independence for individuals who are blind. However, learning this technology—while living with vision loss—can be intimidating. VisionCorps’ Access Technology Specialist is available to patiently teach technology to clients in their homes or in VisionCorps Technology Access Center.
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Technology resources offer new options and solutions for people who are blind or low vision. Access technology promotes greater independence by helping our clients overcome barriers due to vision loss. Through assessment, observation, and training, we provide solutions that meet the individual needs and goals of everyone involved.
Items can include screen readers for computers, refreshable braille displays, screen enlargement software, video magnifiers, and more, some of which are available for purchase. Our goal is to provide you with the training and information you need to use technology to enhance your life. VisionCorps has Technology Accessibility Centers in its Lancaster, Lebanon, and York locations where clients are able to try out devices before they purchase them.
Connect with our Access Technology Specialist!
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Technology comes in a variety of ways and can range from low-tech to high-tech solutions. Whether it’s an app on your phone or a portable magnifier you are looking for, VisionCorps has the knowledge and experience to help.
Examples of low-tech options are handheld magnifiers, talking watches, and simple-to-use voice recorders. Some would even consider writing guides and bump dots used for marking appliances as options. The more complex and high-tech options might include computer adaptations like zoom-text and Jaws that allow users to navigate the computer with ease. New phone apps and accessible GPS units make it easy for our clients to navigate. VisionCorps also has the newest wearables like E-Sight, Iris Vision, and OrCam, plus much more.
Connect with our Access Technology Specialist!
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VisionCorps goal is to help its clients access the technology they need to allow them to remain independent. We offer an access technology specialist to both train our staff on the latest technology advances and train clients who are blind or have low vision. Ask your access technology questions today by completing the form below or by dialing 717-205-4144 to speak with Benjamin Brenya.
Ask the Expert!
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Mom loves to read and was always going to the library until she started losing her vision. We wanted to get her an iPad so she could read books again. VisionCorps came to her home and...
...showed her how to use the iPad’s accessibility features so she could enlarge the size of the text and turn on text-to-audio functions. Now, she gets her newspaper online as well and has even done some online shopping! Mom also got a digital handheld magnifier. She takes it with her wherever she goes. These devices really make a difference!
Pamela Stoner - Daughter of Client Kay Thomas
Get Started with VisionCorps Services!
Who can we help?
People who may benefit or qualify for VisionCorps services generally meet these guidelines:
- Vision loss that cannot be corrected through standard eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery
- Living in Pennsylvania, specifically Adams, Chester, Lancaster, Lebanon or York Counties
- All ages served
Referrals for services are easy!
Eye care physicians can fill out this referral form by following the link below. To refer yourself or others, please complete the contact form or call Mary Lou at 717-205-4141.
Frequent questions about Access Technology
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VisionCorps Access technology services are provided at no cost. These services are supported through donations from the community and a grant through the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind.
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Yes! VisionCorps accepts donations of used devices in working condition. These items are kept in a lending library and provided to clients who cannot afford technology, or who would like to try an item before committing to purchase.
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The purchase of some Access Technology devices can be expensive. VisionCorps has some items available from a lending library for clients to try devices before committing to purchase them. If a client determines they do want to purchase a device, but are not able to afford it, their case manager will work with them to find programs that may be able to help offset the cost of the needed devices. If the device is needed for work or educational purposes, programs exist to provide technology in these circumstances.
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Access Technology refers to items designed specifically to help people with vision maintain their independence both personally and professionally. Access Technology can include screen readers for people who are blind, or screen magnifiers for low-vision computer users, video magnifiers and other devices for reading and writing with low vision, to braille watches and braille printers.
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Everyone learns at a different pace and style, and training can take from a few months to years. Learning things like Braille or access technology might be easier for someone who has been blind all or most of their life, while people who lose their vision later on may have more difficulties. Having information and resources as well as maintaining a positive attitude and being persistent are keys to overcoming challenges! VisionCorps works with each client to determine their goals, and develops a personalized plan to reach them.
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There can be costs for direct Occupational Therapy services covered by insurance. Co-pays and deductibles vary depending on individual plans. For those with Medical Assistance or without any health insurance, funding through other resources is available. Although low vision aids are not covered by Medicare or insurance, VisionCorps’ case managers may be able to access other available resources if these costs are not affordable.
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VisionCorps services are provided at no cost. Most services are supported by donations from the community and revenue from the Business & Industry Group. Should clients require assistive devices or other products, there may be a cost involved. VisionCorps can connect clients to organizations to help offset these expenses.