Technology Update

Survey Says… 

For the last few months, The Iris Network has distributed a survey on how Mainers with vision loss are incorporating assistive technologies to increase their options and improve their day-to-day lives.

Here’s a quick look at results so far:  

· 80% of respondents have a computer in the home, most with Internet access; 64% use computers; 59% want to learn more about assistive computers and computer software;

· 45% have a cell phone, with only 3% reporting use of assistive cell phone technology; 52% want to learn more about assistive cell phones and cell   phone software;

· 45% have a CCTV, or video magnifier, in the home;  45% want to learn more about CCTVs;

· 53% want to learn more about assistive GPS, or global    positioning systems, which help people with vision loss navigate while walking.

 Focus: Assistive Cell Phones

Even before survey results demonstrated a strong interest in assistive technologies and training in The Iris Network community, we worked to identify resources around the state and nation that can help Mainers with vision loss increase their access to technology.  

In addition, we worked to spread the word about new relatively low-cost, highly usable technologies. We helped host presentations in Houlton, Bangor, Portland and Wells, where attendees tried out a variety of technologies, including cell phones using Mobile Speak speech output software, the easy-to-use Jitterbug cell phone, and LG phones with voice commands. In our presentations, we shared what we’ve learned from cell phone manufacturers and service providers and asked about your mobile communication needs.  

We also formed a group of consumers who use different cell phones to sustain a Friendship Network. Members now meet regularly by phone to build relationships and develop knowledge of accessible cell phone features that the Iris Network can share with other clients.

If you or your group may be interested in a presentation on assistive cell phones and their various features and options, and/or training in assistive cell phones, please call Steve Kelley at 800-715-0097 or skelley@theiris.org.

If you haven’t taken the Iris Network survey on assistive technology interests and needs, please call or email Steve or access the survey at http://www.theiris.org/techsurvey.asp 

We warmly encourage you to support our work by participating in the survey. Watch this space for ongoing news about assistive technologies!             

Considering a New Home?

Check out the Iris Park Apartments

The Iris Park Apartments, a beautifully designed, comfortable, low-income, independent apartment facility with one and two bedroom units, is looking to develop a waiting list of individuals who may be interested in becoming tenants and who are visually impaired or blind.

Located on the Portland Iris Network campus   in a central, convenient location and managed by Avesta Housing, the Iris Park Apartments has three floors with common areas and a variety of amenities. Tenants have access to Iris Network services and manage their own daily lives.   

If you feel that you may meet the low income eligibility guidelines and would like to learn more about life in the Apartments, please call Emily at 774-6273 or Click here for a printable application form.