Contrast sensitivity declines with age, and is accelerated by eye diseases and disorders. It becomes noticeable when we place a white object on a white surface and it disappears. The same occurs with dark objects on dark surfaces, and many variations in between. In other words it’s about how well an object can be seen against it’s background in conditions that simulate low light, fog or glare. Low contrast complicates reading text and viewing images. The highest contrast scheme for legibility is simply black and white.
When things seem to disappear before your eyes, it’s time to implement strategies to compensate for reduced contrast vision. Here are some of the best ways to adjust.
Enhance lighting.
- Use maximum wattage in kitchens, bathrooms, halls and stairways
- Add task lighting for detailed work and reading
Minimize contrast issues preparing, serving and enjoying food.
- Use light color plates on dark placemats with contrasting napkins
- Pour dark liquids into light colored cups and vice versa
- Prep foods on contrasting cutting boards
Review 10 Kitchen Tips for Low Vision Cooks
Accessibility and style co-exist at home.
- Go bold with color and contrast in furniture and accessories
- Accentuate your space with attention to lighting to enhance safety, comfort and style
- Consult Nate’s Low Vision Makeover
Make digital screens easier to see.
- Personalize contrast, display and text setting to improve screen legibility
- Contact Accessibility Support Phone Lines at Apple, Microsoft and Google for specialized assistance in maximizing visual and speech options
- Video magnifiers not only enlarge text and images, they offer options to adjust contrast for a clearer view
Use bolder black ink markers for better writing clarity.
For example try the BoldWriter Pens from our Low Vision Gifts List
When the item you’re looking for mysteriously disappears, try this total tech solution.
- Be My AI in the Be My Eyes app can help find an item lost in a room, take a photo with the app and ask if your missing item (smartphone, AirPod case, wallet, etc.) is in the photo. If it’s there, it will tell you where to find it
- If you need more than AI, there’s an option to connect with a sighted volunteer