Episode 8: How Can Video Magnification Help You Read at Work, School & Home?

Living with Vision Loss PodcastEpisode 8: How Can Video Magnification Help You Read at Work, School & Home?Host: Dawn Ciccarone, MS OTR/L, CLVTEpisode Type: Educational / Product GuideEpisode SummaryDawn explains why video magnification is one of the most popular solutions for people with vision loss who want to read again at work, school, or home. Unlike optical magnifiers, video magnifiers let you adjust magnification daily (up to 60x), change contrast colors, and see more words on the screen without losing field of view. Dawn shares her three favorite portable video magnifiers and discusses cost considerations and funding options.Why Video Magnification Is PopularAdjust magnification dailyChange contrast to the color you see bestSee more words on the screen — magnify without losing field of viewDawn's Three Favorite Video Magnifiers1. Ruby XL HD (Freedom Scientific)Tilt screen — lay flat on paper or switch to handle for medicine bottlesMultiple contrast modes, adjustable magnificationGreat portable option for work; smaller screen limits high magnification2. Explore 12 (Humanware)Simple controls: orange button for contrast, +/- buttons for sizeLarger screen = more words visible at high magnificationOptional stand for writing under the camera3. Clover Book ProLightweight, portable with both near and distance camerasDistance camera sees presentations, whiteboards, teacher's faceIdeal for classroom or office meeting settingsThings to ConsiderMatch the device to your goals - Video magnification is like shoe shopping. Find the right fit.Try before you buy — Evaluations typically last 1–1.5 hoursCost — Devices range from $900–$3,000; not covered by insuranceFunding OptionsBureau of Blindness and Visual Services (state agency)Lions ClubChurch organizationsYour employer (workplace accommodations)Your school (student accommodations)Brands MentionedFreedom ScientificHumanwareOptelecLow Vision InternationalResourcesQuestions or for information about the Clover Book Pro email [email protected] - Search Living with Vision Loss Dawn Ciccarone to view devicesQuestions about purchasing video magnification devices from Freedom Scientific, Humanware, Optelec or Low Vision International email Nick Peterson at [email protected] Your HostDawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT is a Certified Low Vision Therapist and Occupational Therapist with over 20 years of experience helping people with vision loss live independently.Connect & SubscribeSubscribe to the Living with Vision Loss Podcast. Contact Dawn on LinkedIn with questions or [email protected]: video magnification, video magnifier, CCTV for low vision, Ruby XL HD, Explore 12, Clover Book Pro, Freedom Scientific, Humanware, portable video magnifier, low vision at work, low vision at school, magnifier with contrast, distance camera magnifierMedical DisclaimerThe information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your physician or low vision specialist before making treatment decisions.Living with Vision Loss Podcast © 2026| Become More Independent in Your Everyday Life