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Workventures IT have a great business that turns ex corporate and government PCs and peripheral equipment into affordable systems for people with disabilities. Systems with a P4 1.8ghz computer with 17" monitor and 25 hours internet access start at $250. All systems come with Windows XP and should run software such as JAWS easily. Call 1800 112 205 for further information.

This week I took the plunge and purchased an Apple iPhone. Partly for my own needs, but also to test its usefulness to low vision users. The iPhone is not officially available in Australia yet, so the phone is a US import which has been "modified" using the Jailbreak software.

In terms of accessibility, there is good news and bad news. Firstly, for a blind user it is almost totally inaccessible. There are almost no tactile markings on the device apart from a volume rocker switch and the sleep button. The front of the device is flat and smooth as almost all functions are controlled by the touch screen. The phone uses a modified version of the Mac operating system OSX which does have some good accessiblity feaetures such as voice over, a screen reader, so in theory modifying the device to have an audio interface shouldn't be a huge problem. Additionally, the device has bluetooth and the input issues could be solved by the use of a device like the Easy Link 12, a bluetooth braille interface.

What is age-related macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp, central vision. Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for common daily tasks such as reading and driving.

AMD affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail. AMD causes no pain.

In some cases, AMD advances so slowly that people notice little change in their vision. In others, the disease progresses faster and may lead to a loss of vision in both eyes. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older.

AMD occurs in two forms: wet and dry.

Where is the macula?

The macula is located in the center of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The retina instantly converts light, or an image, into electrical impulses. The retina then sends these impulses, or nerve signals, to the brain.

This past week saw the Macular Degeneration Foundation hold their annual education session in Launceston and Hobart. There was a good turnout at both locations where attendees heard Karolina McLaren discussed risk factors, treatment options as well as management of the disease. Trevor Boyd from Quantum Technology was also kind enough to come down to assist Tasmanian Living Technology demonstrate the Clearview and Compact magnifiers from Optelec. Other speakers included Carelink, Hearing Australia and Guide Dogs Tasmania.

Tasmanian Living Technology will match any price of Adaptive Technology from the mainland suppliers and include local delivery and setup for no extra cost. Most supplies will add a postage of charge of between $30 and $80 to get items to Tasmania, so this should be factored into all prospective purchases. We are Tasmanian agents for Quantum Technology, Humanware, Visitech (Enhanced Vision) and Advanced Digital. We also can source equipment from the RNIB in the UK and the AFB in the US. Call us on 03 63317400 for a quote on any of your adaptive technology needs.