Technology for Low Vision: A Starter Guide
When eyesight fades, the small print of daily life can feel like it is closing in. The encouraging truth is that the phone, tablet or computer you may already own is one of the most powerful low-vision aids ever made. With a few settings changed, text grows, screens brighten, and your device can even read aloud to you.
This is a gentle starting point. You do not need to do everything at once, just the parts that help most. If you are helping an older parent get online, see our wider guide to helping a parent go online.
Quick answer
Start with the built-in settings on your phone or tablet: larger text, bolder fonts, higher contrast and a screen magnifier, all free and already there. Add a few helpful apps that can read labels aloud or describe what the camera sees. For tailored advice, Vision Australia runs a free Access Technology Helpdesk on 1300 847 466. A bigger screen, like a tablet, often makes everything easier.
Start with the settings you already have
Every modern phone, tablet and computer has accessibility settings built in, designed exactly for this. They cost nothing and make a real difference.
- Larger text: increase the text size so messages, menus and web pages are easier to read.
- Bold and high contrast: make letters thicker and sharpen the difference between text and background.
- Magnifier: turn the camera into a magnifying glass for labels, letters and medicine bottles.
- Zoom: enlarge any part of the screen with a tap or gesture.
- Read aloud: have the device speak text, emails and books to you, so you can rest your eyes.
You will find these under Accessibility in the Settings menu. If it feels daunting, a family member can set them up once and they will stay. Our guide on the best tablets for reading and large text is a good companion if a bigger screen would help.
Apps that lend a hand
Beyond the settings, some free apps are made for low vision. A few use the camera to read out the text on a letter or label. Others identify colours or banknotes, which helps with sorting washing or paying at the shop. There are also apps that connect you to a sighted volunteer who can describe what your camera sees, over a quick video call. Our roundup of the best apps for seniors points to trustworthy ones and shows how to install them.
Where to get help in Australia
You do not have to work it all out alone. Vision Australia supports people who are blind or have low vision, and its free Access Technology Helpdesk can advise on devices, settings and apps over the phone. You can reach it on 1300 847 466. Other organisations help too, including Guide Dogs in each state, See Differently, and the Macular Disease Foundation Australia if macular degeneration is the cause. A visit to your optometrist is a sensible first step as well, to understand your vision and what will help most.
Help paying for low-vision technology
Built-in settings and free apps cost nothing, but a dedicated magnifier or specialist device can run into hundreds of dollars. In Australia there is real help to pay for it:
- If you are 65 or over, My Aged Care can fund assistive technology through the Support at Home program. Phone 1800 200 422 or start at myagedcare.gov.au.
- If you are under 65, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may fund magnifiers, screen readers and other equipment as part of your plan.
- Other help. The Vision Australia Bursary and various state and territory equipment schemes can assist, and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs may cover aids for eligible veterans.
For the devices themselves, specialist suppliers such as the Vision Australia shop, Quantum Reading Learning Vision and Pacific Vision stock magnifiers, large-button gadgets and reading machines made for low vision. This is general information rather than formal advice, so ask the helpdesk which path fits your circumstances.
For longer reading, a dedicated eReader lets you set very large text on a glare-free screen, which many people find restful. Our guide to the best eReaders for seniors covers the options.
Before you finish
Download the free Family Tech Safety Checklist to help check phone safety, passwords, scam messages, emergency contacts and medical alarm details.
FAQ: technology for low vision
Do I need to buy special equipment?
Often not. The accessibility settings on a phone or tablet you already own do a great deal for free. Special equipment is there if you need more, and there is funding to help pay for it.
Can my phone really read text aloud?
Yes. Built-in features can read emails, messages and web pages aloud, and some apps read printed letters using the camera.
Is a tablet better than a phone for low vision?
For many people, yes. The larger screen makes text and buttons easier to see, while using the same simple settings.
Who can help me set this up?
A family member can change the settings in a few minutes. For tailored advice, Vision Australia runs a free Access Technology Helpdesk on 1300 847 466.
Is there funding for low-vision devices?
Yes. My Aged Care can help if you are 65 or over, the NDIS if you are under 65, and there are state schemes and the Vision Australia Bursary as well. Ask the helpdesk which suits you.
