I have recently discovered that using a magnifier can be a game changer! Whether you pursue an intricate hobby, are partially or severely sight impaired, have issues seeing tiny labels, or love seeing the world of nature in close up detail, a magnifier is so very useful.
I was introduced to the world of magnifiers due to my husband being diagnosed severe sight impaired. He requires additional support to read print and had an assessment to ascertain which magnifier would suit him.
Magnifiers are incredibly versatile tools with a wide range of uses, regardless of whether you have vision issues or not. As part of his sight assessment my husband was issued with two magnifiers and he finds them very useful, however an unexpected benefit is that I am also finding them extremely helpful! I don't have any particular sight issues but I do find these days and as I get a bit older there are so many things that seem to be in tiny print!!
My husband who is severe sight impaired uses them for accessibility and a low vision aid and I use them whenever I cannot see the print very well and for other interests.
Examples of ways we use magnifiers.
- Reading the very small print on washing instructions. I find it particularly annoying that the print is always so small and even worse when it is grey on black. A magnifier helps me to get the washing right and avoid costly mistakes!
- Reading mixing or cooking information on jars and packets of food.
- Checking ingredient list and cooking instructions on tins, packets and jars.
- Checking the ingredient list on beauty and health products - as I am allergic to specific ingredients this is very important to me to so that I do not get a reaction or waste time having to send things back.
- Reading the Fine Print in important written paper documents.
- When I took an evening class in Astronomy we needed a magnifier to spot the finer details. We used magnifiers to examine star charts.
- Helps me to in identify tiny pests and diseases particularly on my indoor plants and to investigate the intricate details of plants and flower structures we would not normally see.
- On our nature walks it can be interesting to examine tiny flowers and fungus under the magnifier to find details not easily visible.
- Ideal for checking splinters and other small wounds
- Reading, especially books or magazines with small print
- Checking telephone numbers
- Looking at debit card details when providers ask for the numbers
- Reading policy numbers on insurances etc when providers ask for them.
- Reading Instructions on new purchases.
- Reading restaurant menus, especially in low light.
Magnifiers are useful for a range of interests
Here are just a few examples
- Watch and Clock Repair: Magnifiers are essential for examining and repairing the delicate parts of watches and clocks. My Dad had an avid hobby repairing watches and clocks and he always had a couple of magnifiers beside him. I have fond memories as a child watching him take apart watches and clocks, repair them and carefully put it all back together again with such patience and skill.
- Collectors may use magnifiers to inspect the details and condition of stamps and coins.
- Ideal for artists and crafters working with small, intricate pieces like beads.
- Magnifiers can be used to study the details of rocks and fossils which are fascinating.
- Artists can use magnifiers to add details to their work or to appreciate the intricate details of other artists work.
Useful Features To Consider In A Magnifier
We personally find the two most useful features a light with the magnifier and the portability.
We now have two magnifiers, one is hand held with a round glass vision area and a handle and the other one is a credit card shaped magnifier. Both are very useful in all kinds of situations.
Light
We both appreciate a magnifier that has an optional light. This is really helpful when trying to read in low light such as a restaurant menu or a poorly lit room. It is also easier to see tiny print with the light on. I would certainly recommend always getting one with a good light system.
Magnification Power
This is a personal preference so it is good to check the magnification power for your needs to give you clarity and reduce any eyestrain. This may depend on your eyesight and the reason you need the magnifier.
Quality
It is important that the Magnifier is strong enough so that it can stand up to being carried around and used on the move and that it is comfortable to hold. It needs to be light enough to easily carry, yet sturdy enough to carry in a pocket or handbag. We have found that sometimes you might need to consider the trade between a comfort hold and an item that it a bit bulkier or to get two, one to use at home and a lighter smaller one to use out of the home.
Clarity
It is vital that the resulting sight is clear and comfortable for your eyes. There is a slight learning curve as you find the ideal distance from the letters or numbers you are trying to read to get the optimum clarity.
Versatility
Ideally the magnifier will be suitable for several tasks, though you may find for some needs and specific tasks you might need two. We only use portable Magnifiers so far, but people may also find a magnifier with a stand is useful especially for crafting and if you find it difficult to hold a magnifier for periods of time.
Value For Money
We all look for value for money and assuming you choose the correct magnifier for your needs it can be a great long lasting product and handy helper to help you in everyday life, keep independence and enjoy hobbies.
Magnifiers have so may potential applications for a wide range of needs and interests. Whether you are visually impaired, struggling more with sight as we get older or enjoying an intricate hobby a magnifier is a versatile tool.
It encourages more independence with everyday tasks rather than having to ask other people to read labels and instructions.
In my experience using a magnifier results in fewer frustrating moments of struggling to see things and makes everyday tasks much easier. I would highly recommend a magnifier!
Read More Reviews By Raintree Annie
My husband has always had multiple magnifiers on hand. A few years ago, I complained of not being able to read my cross stitch pattern and he promptly pulled out a magnifier. I was stunned by the difference it made. He purchased a magnifier headset for me that I wear on my head when I am reading a pattern. The difference is astonishing and the headset leaves my hands free to stitch! Magnifiers really are a game-changer and a fabulous aid to keep with us at all times. Oh, yes and they are essential in the kitchen for reading labels & recipes.
ReplyDeleteIn later life, my mother developed macular degeneration in both eyes. The Institute for the Blind provided her with many useful aids, one of which was a large magnifier. It became an invaluable aid to her in her daily routine. I agree that magnifiers are useful in many ways.
ReplyDeleteYou have encouraged me to get out my magnifiers and use them.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I both have multiple forms of magnifiers (handheld and visor types), both lighted and standard. Like you, we use them gor everything from hobbies to reading the tiny print on toiletries. Thanks for your wonderful examples of their many uses!
ReplyDeleteWe are also magnifier lovers, hubby has one that goes on his head so he can work with his hands and my daughter uses a stand magnifier for her intricate needlework. Me, I'm finding that hand held magnifiers work great for all of the reasons you stated, from reading tags to instructions and sometimes even my books when I get print copies. I can't be without them!
ReplyDeleteI had absolutely no idea there were so many options for magnifiers - I love the big one, and the credit card shaped magnifier. I have a magnifier and in fact used it today! It's a round one - I used it read a tiny serial number on an item.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing how small some print is these days. Sometimes I have used the camera on my phone as a way to read small print. With your suggestion, there would be less adjusting involved.
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