Accessible Glucose Monitors: Why Aren’t They Better Yet?

Can you really manage diabetes accessibly as a blind user? In this powerful episode, Shaun dives into the search for an accessible blood glucose monitor—and gets an eye-opening response from Tess Lockton, a visually impaired parent of a child with type 1 diabetes. From the frustrating reality of so-called “talking monitors” to the pros and cons of continuous glucose monitors like Dexcom and Libre, Tess shares hard-earned insights every listener needs to hear.Also in this episode: Steven and Shaun talk Eero mesh networks, gigabit internet, and Sky Glass, before diving into your feedback on navigation tech, including a thoughtful message about GPS and accessibility from listener Doug.[Episode Summary]Shaun shares his struggles managing type 2 diabetes as a blind person and kicks off a deeper conversation about accessible diabetes tools. Listener Tess Lockton joins to discuss raising a child with type 1 diabetes while visually impaired—and how the tech designed to help often falls short. She breaks down her experiences with Dexcom and Libre systems, the challenges of getting accurate readings, and why even the best tech solutions still leave accessibility gaps.Meanwhile, Steven updates his home setup with Sky Glass and talks through the accessibility differences between SkyQ and the new system. The duo also nerd out over mesh networking and smart speakers—and highlight new listener feedback on GPS tech like StellarTrek and the missed potential of Soundscape-style navigation.[Chapters]0:00 – Shaun’s glucose journey begins3:40 – Weekend updates: Eero mesh fixes and gigabit drama9:55 – Sky Glass, audio description, and setup accessibility18:10 – Double Tap’s new newsletter partnership with Mindvault22:04 – Listener Tess Lockton joins to talk accessible diabetes tech24:20 – Living through diagnosis and hospital mishandling31:05 – Dexcom vs Libre: pros, cons, and accessibility flaws40:15 – Finger-prick demo: Why even “accessible” monitors fail52:10 – The hidden costs and pressure of using inaccessible tools56:30 – Final advice and offers of help from Tess[Relevant Links]Double Tap Newsletter: https://doubletaponair.com/subscribeNexus Voice Talking Blood Glucose Monitor: https://www.glucorx.co.uk/shop/nexus-voice-meter/Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring: https://www.dexcom.comFreestyle Libre 3 System: https://www.freestyle.abbott/en-ca/products/what-is-free-style-libre.htmlRNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People): https://www.rnib.org.uk👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real talk on accessible tech and life with disability. Visit https://doubletaponair.com/subscribe for exclusive updates!#accessibletech #diabetestech #blindtech ----Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedinSubscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheartAbout Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited."Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.