“I was always at the mercy of other people for their time,” explained Nutsiri “Earth” Kidkul, Lead Technology Instructor at Braille Institute’s Los Angeles Center during a recent CNET interview about her blindness.  But, with enhancements to smartphones and new apps that focus on assistive technology for visually impaired, Kidkul considers the game changed. Today, Kidkul teaches others with visual impairment how to use current technology at Braille Institute’s Connection Pointe Technology Lab in Los Angeles.

As mainstream technology becomes more assistive, getting connected is the next step for anyone with low vision to experience a whole new world of independence. That’s why Braille Institute’s state-of-the-art Connection Pointe labs throughout southern California are equipped with computers, iPhones, Android phones. iPads, and assistive technology devices for the blind and visually impaired to provide hands-on technology training and workshops – at no cost. Or, bring your own device, training covers all the bases:

  • iPhone and Android talk-back and magnifier, and personal assistant set-up;
  • Best apps with AI (artificial intelligence) to recognize faces, count change, and more;
  • Voice activated in-home assistants;
  • Closed-Circuit televisions (CCTVs);
  • Victor Reader streams;
  • BARD -online digital audiobooks and magazines.

Kidkul’s journey to self-sufficiency through technology has been positively transformative despite becoming blind several years ago.

Regardless of level of sight loss, everyone should plan to have a 2020 resolution for independence despite visual impairment. During the month of January, a series of free, special Assistive Technology workshops are being held at Braille Institute centers in: Los Angeles, Anaheim, Laguna Hills, Riverside, San Diego and Santa Barbara.

Get started with an initial appointment today. Also, during Braille Institute’s Technology Month workshops in January 2020, discover how assistive technology can help one stay connected to lead a more independent life.

Find a free workshop near you and register today.

www.brailleinstitute.org 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553)

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