Blindness for Beginners

Available for over a year

Chris & Mike McMillan join Peter White to answer listeners' questions on being newly blind or partially-sighted. Listener Richard asked for advice on dealing with visual impairment when you live alone. Chris and Mike advised him to speak to the RNIB helpline and his local voluntary society for VI people. Listener Doreen wanted advice on how to make a cup of tea safely and measure food in the kitchen. Chris advised using an electronic liquid level indicator (available from the RNIB and others) to measure liquids. The RNIB and other suppliers of aids for VI people also make talking measuring jugs and scales. Chris and Mike also advise using colour contrast and bright, uniform lighting to help with cooking. Listener Beryl asked about how to identify coins if you are unable to feel the thickness of the individual coins. Mike advised a coin sorter (which used to be available from the RNIB) to separate change. Chris advised a segmented purse, or sorting change before you leave the house into easily identifiable sets. Both Chris and Mike use contactless payments on their phones and cards which they find easier than carrying change. Producer: Cheryl Gabriel Presenter: Peter White.