Bob Watson has struggled with his vision for around 50 years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But now innovative technology direct from the US might give the Armidale resident and former telecom worker a whole new life.
““I have no close sight. It would be nice if I could get something that would enable me to tell what you look like,” he said.
It would be nice if I could get something that would enable me to tell what you look like.
- Bob Watson
Mr Watson said he started to lose his sight in 1967 after experiencing retina detachment.
“Over the years I’ve had several operations for that purpose and starting in 2001 I started to get holes in the macular – which is the central focus sight of the eye,” he said.
The macular is responsible for sharp, central vision needed for driving, reading and seeing fine detail.
“Anything in spectacles now is not able to do anything for me,” he said.
“I used to be a prolific reader but I can no longer read and even struggle to watch TV.
“I’m hoping that maybe somebody can help me.”
To make it easier for people in regional areas like Mr Watson to access the latest low-vision technologies, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT in conjunction with Quantum Reading Learning Vision ran a free expo in Armidale on Friday.
This year, Quantum RLV launched its latest technology – the OrCam MyEye.
Consultant Mark Bettiens told The Express the OrCam MyEye was an intuitive wearable device with a smart camera that clips onto a regular spectacle frame.
“This technology has only been in Australia for about four months now,” Mr Bettiens said.
“It’s a little camera that basically connects onto any set of glasses with a speaker attached.
“Just by simply pointing your finger on a text document, it will read that document back to you in your ear.
“It’s very portable and spontaneous in its feedback.”
The devise also has face recognition.
“The first time you’re using the devise on the person, by pushing a button you take a photo of the person and it will ask you what their name is,” he said.
“Once it’s saved that, whenever you see that person it will say their name.”
While the devise can set users back $5000, grants through Veterans Affairs and NSW Health are available and can be applied for by contacting Quantum RLV.
