People who are blind or vision impaired, as well as anyone with reading or learning difficulties, will have an opportunity to learn about and try out a wide range of Assistive Technology (AT ) solutions at an upcoming AT exhibition in Galway today on World Sight Day.
Whether you’re adapting to age-related reduced vision, you want to learn about the latest in AI-powered technology for people who are blind, or you’re a student with dyslexia and want to get the most out of your school or college experience, you’ll find options from magnifiers to smart glasses and reading pens.
Sight and Sound Technology Ireland, the leading provider of Assistive Technology in Ireland will kicked off their nationwide AT roadshow in Dublin on Monday before coming to Galway today Thursday 12th October.
Stuart Lawler, Head of Digital Content at Sight and Sound Technology Ireland that a a lifelong Braille user himself, he knows that the right piece of Assistive Technology can have a hugely positive impact and offer newfound independence.
“Because these products are not mainstream, it can be difficult to get your hands on them and try them out. People are often buying online without having had a chance to see a piece of technologyproperly for themselves, so the roadshow is a great opportunity to come and ask our expert staff and exhibitors questions and try out products to find out if they’re right for you.”
Joining Sight and Sound Technology Ireland at the exhibition are ChildVision, the National Education Centre for Blind Children and Fighting Blindness, who will be on hand to talk through their range of services from.
Visitors can also try out the latest AI-powered smart glasses from Dutch company Envision. Envision smart glasses convert everyday visual information into speech by scanning text, describing a scene, recognising cash, detecting colours and recognising faces. The wearer can also call a friend through the glasses and use the built-in camera to allow the sighted person to see what the wearer sees, helping them to locate an object, or perhaps an entrance to a building.
Glenn Tookey, CEO of Sight and Sound Technology said they are 40 years’ in business, providing solutions and lifelong support to people who are blind or vision impaired and people with reading and learning difficulties.
“The changes I’ve seen in Assistive Technology in that time are enormous. Now, with AI, we are able to bring people the most sophisticated solutions which offer incredible independence and choice. The demand for lower tech items is still there and always will be and that’s why it’s so valuable to give people a chance to see all of these options side by side and offer real choice,” he said.
The exhibition will also offer visitors the chance to experience what it is like to live with a range of eye conditions, through immersive virtual reality technology called Empatheyes. Empatheyes simulates more than 30 eye conditions, providing a 360° immersive learning experience using unique eye-tracking software to provide an accurate simulation of visual impairment.
Sight and Sound Technology Ireland’s Assistive Technology Exhibition takes place at The Connacht Hotel, Dublin Road, Galway from 2.00 - 7.00 today October 12.
Visit n for further information and to register to attend the exhibition.
