Suggestions

Permission for Use

Low Vision Assessment and Rehabilitation

Initial Low Vision Management

Environmental Modifications

Contrast

We could give pages of examples of contrast enhancement. Not every suggestion will benefit or be needed by every person with vision impairment. It is more important to understand the concept of using (1) bold colors and (2) high contrast between colors (e.g. black on white, or bright yellow on dark blue, rather than black on grey or red on blue), and then individualize for each person. Even a person who does not have normal color perception can benefit from high contrast.

Examples of using contrast in low vision rehabilitation include:

• Faceplates of electrical switches and outlets installed in contrasting color to the wall coloration.
• Contrast color of door and door facings with surrounding wall color.
• Dark-colored tablecloths or placemats on glass top tables.
• Colored tape or decals on sliding glass doors.
• Dark-colored bathmat placed over the edge of tub, or, alternatively, dark-colored adhesive to bottom of tub and electrical tape on tub edge.
• Floating tub toy in the bathwater to determine water level.
• Pour coffee into light-colored mug, not dark.
• White plates on dark placemats or tablecloth.
• Wrapping rings of bright tape around pot handles, knife handles, tool handles, etc.
• Colored toothpaste on white bristles; dark toothbrush in white holder.
• Taping leading edge of steps with contrasting color.
• Use yellow acetate sheets over reading material to improve contrast of print.
• Contrast color of carpets and walls to furniture colors.