Showing posts with label Gifts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gifts. Show all posts

Monday, August 25, 2025

A Review of Our Rechargeable Electric Wine Opener

 Opening a bottle of wine should feel like the beginning of a relaxing evening, not a battle with a stubborn cork. That's where the rechargeable electric wine opener comes in, making it a simple task to open a bottle of wine.

Electric Wine Opener

Our daughter and grandsons got this electric wine bottle opener for her birthday. We always have a couple of bottles of wine on hand for special occasions or just a relaxing glass of wine in the evening.

Fran and I definitely have different tastes in wine. Fran likes a dry wine, and for myself, it has to be on the sweeter side. 

Features of the Electric Wine Opener:

  • Easy push-button operation. Press the "down" button to insert the cork, and the "up" button to extract the cork. No twisting or pulling required.
  • After a full charge, the wine opener will open 30 or 40 bottles of wine, depending on the model.
  • A foil cutter and vacuum wine stopper are included with our model.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet glass at home, the rechargeable wine opener adds a touch of convenience and class. It's helpful for people with arthritis or reduced hand strength, as it eliminates the need for manual effort.

This is a perfect gift idea for friends and family who enjoy a glass of wine. I would say the electric wine opener is not a must-have, but a nice-to-have.

You will find a variety of Electric Wine Bottle openers on Amazon.

Electric Wine Opener,Automatic Wine Bottle Opener Rechargeable Cordless Electric Corkscrew Wine Opener Gift Set with Wine Stopper, Foil Cutter, Wine Aerator,Storage Base & Charging CableElectric Wine Opener,Automatic Wine Bottle Opener Rechargeable Cordless Electric Corkscrew Wine Opener Gift Set with Wine Stopper, Foil Cutter, Wine Aerator,Storage Base & Charging CableCheck the PriceCuisinart Vacuum Sealer Cordless Wine Opener, One Size, BlackCuisinart Vacuum Sealer Cordless Wine Opener, One Size, BlackCheck the PriceCrenova Wine Opener Electric, Rechargeable Wine Bottle Opener, Automatic Corkscrew with Vacuum Stopper, Aerator Pourer, Foil Cutter, Display Base, House Warming Gifts for New Home Wedding BirthdayCrenova Wine Opener Electric, Rechargeable Wine Bottle Opener, Automatic Corkscrew with Vacuum Stopper, Aerator Pourer, Foil Cutter, Display Base, House Warming Gifts for New Home Wedding BirthdayCheck the Price

 




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Friday, August 22, 2025

Mattel's 80th Anniversary Barbie Dolls Reviewed

80th anniversary barbie
Barbie dolls have always been my favorite toy and they have always been a part of my life.  As a child, I played with my Barbies.  As an adult, I collect my favorite specialty Barbies.  When I saw the 80th Anniversary Barbie Signature Doll, I knew I would want to add this gorgeous Barbie to my collection.  Seeing "80th anniversary" printed on her box caused me to pause and think though.  Barbie isn't 80!  No, she is not.  It is actually their maker, Mattel, that is celebrating their 80th year in business and they doing it in grand style with a signature edition anniversary Barbie.

While the Barbie Signature Doll may have been created with collectors in mind, there is also an much less expensive 80's anniversary Barbie for play.  I actually like both of them.  I have featured them at the bottom of this review for you to compare.  I would love to hear you thoughts.

Most of us are already familiar with Barbie's history.  The first Barbie was released and introduced to the world by Mattel in 1959.  Since then, Mattel has sold over a billion Barbie dolls.  It won't surprise you to hear that the Barbie line is the most profitable for Mattel.  She is their own private little gold mine.  After all, one can't just stop at one Barbie.  She must have everything: clothes, accessories, homes, cars, boats, camping equipment, and certainly friends.  And, let's not forget her movies.  Clearly, she is Mattel's biggest star. 

 

The 80th Anniversary Barbie

 Barbie Signature Doll, Mattel 80th Anniversary CollectibleCheck Price Red has always been a stunning color on Barbies.  Over the years, the annual Holiday Barbie has frequently been dressed in red, but this year, she wears her red for the special Mattel anniversary.  Ironically, she will be wearing gold for Christmas this year.

Take note of Barbie's earrings, shown in the picture on the right.  They prominently feature the letter "M" for Mattel in honor of the original Matty Mattel logo.  

Her fitted glittery red dress is stunningly detailed with a tulle bustle and accessorized with complimentary red sheer gloves and red pump shoes.  But, you don't need me to describe her.  You can see for yourself that she is gorgeous! 

A doll stand is included for displaying this lovely collectible.  As well as, a Certificate of Authenticity.  

 

     

Side by Side Comparison - For Collecting or Play

 Barbie Signature Doll, Mattel 80th Anniversary Collectible in Glittery Red Tulle Gown with Drop Earrings and Sheer Gloves, Blonde HairCheck Price Barbie Mattel 80th Anniversary Ruby-Red Celebration Blonde Fashion Doll Wearing Red Dress with Silvery Shoes & NecklaceCheck Price

 

 

 

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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, August 12, 2025

What is Summerween?

 

Curious about Summerween? Wonder where it came from? Looking for ideas for celebrating the holiday?

I have long known that Halloween is the biggest selling holiday in America. With all the costumes, candy and decorations that people buy, that comes as no surprise. But I have just discovered a trend known as Summerween that I will review here.

The stores have long put their Halloween merchandise out during the late summer. However, Good Morning America says that stores launched their Halloween items extra early this year at least in part hoping to catch a piece of this trend. People are not just buying their Halloween supplies early but they are actually celebrating the holiday twice. That is, in October and in June or July and hence the term Summerween.

According to the magazine Real Simple, the holiday may have originated from the Season 1, Episode 12, Disney Channel episode of Gravity Falls, in which the residents celebrated Halloween with jack-o-melons and trick-or-treating in the summer on June 22nd or the second to last Friday of the month. The Pioneer Woman points out that if this is the origin, it took more than a decade for the trend to translate from the screen to reality, which it has done in 2025.

Summerween is enjoying succes at least in part because of the nostalgia surrounding Halloween though  Summerween-themed merchandise tends to include our favorite themes with some brighter, summery colors like those shown in the photo at the top of this page. You will find an endless variety of items like these for your Summerween celebration here on eBay.

The new ‘holiday’ is I suppose whatever you make it but it tends to be a blend of summer and Halloween with both non-traditional Halloween items like the aforementioned melon jack-o-lantern, icy drinks and flamingoes to traditional items like Frankenstein, skeletons and ghosts. You can have a pool party and a BBQ. You can read fireside stories at the campfire. You can watch spooky movies outdoors!

What a great way to get double the value out of your Halloween collection. If once a year is not enough for you and you want to do Halloween twice, you’ll find lots of ideas for celebrating a traditionally non-traditional Summerween in your social media feed but let me take this opportunity to share a few great ideas here:

MORE SUMMERWEEN CELEBRATION IDEAS


Harley Quinn Costume 

A Harley Quinn costume might even be better in the summer than in the winter because you don't have to worry about being warm!

A Barbie-Themed Apron

How about a Barbie-themed apron? I think it would make a perfect part of your costume in the summertime especially if you are serving up some pink cocktails.


A Summerween party with recipes from Delish that seem appropriate to the original holiday hosted in summer. Mummy hot dogs, pumpkin s'mores cookies and a black widow cocktail are just a few.


Perfect for your Halloween-themed storytelling, fall or summer, creepypasta is definitely not edible.


Audrey Hepburn's Wait Until Dark is a perfect psychological thriller considered "one of the most intensely frightening movies in movie history."


Puzzles aren't just for wintertime. If you find you have more time on your hands in the summer or you just enjoy puzzling all year long, you will enjoy this Halloween Treats puzzle.

SOUND UNNATURAL?


"Summerween?" says the Gravity Falls character played by Kristen Schall. "Sounds unnatural." What do you say?

Happy Summerween!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

SUMMERWEEN MERCHANDISE





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Wednesday, July 30, 2025

The Best Affordable UPF 50+ Sun Protection Gloves Product Review

Most of us are pretty good about putting sunscreen on our faces and necks before we head outside. But if you’re like I used to be, you might not give much thought to your hands. The truth is, they’re one of the first areas to show sun damage—age spots, thinning skin, and those little freckles that pop up over the years. And, of course, unprotected hands are just as vulnerable to skin cancer as the rest of your body.

My sister, who’s a physician, has urged me to take sun protection seriously for decades, and as I've gotten older I have become a bit obsessive about wearing high SPF sunscreen and UV protective clothing. Our dad developed skin cancer after his time in the Navy, and that was a turning point for both of us. We learned firsthand that protecting your skin isn’t just about looks—it’s about health. She was actually the one who convinced me to start wearing UPF 50+ gloves, not just outside, but even in the car. I don’t drive myself, but UV rays easily penetrate car windows, and the exposure really adds up over time.

My sister's recommendation is how I discovered the Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves. Coolibar was the first sun-protective clothing company to receive the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, and it’s a brand I’ve come to trust.

The Best Affordable UPF 50+ Sun Protection Gloves

Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves Review: My Go-To Sun Protection for Hands

Even though I have been diligent about applying sunscreen to my face, neck and chest for many years, I have been less diligent about protecting the skin on the rest of my body. Sunscreen lasts only so long, and it is more difficult to reapply it to the body than to the face when you're on the go. About five or six years ago I really started noticing some of the sun damage incurred during my twenties and thirties, when I was not diligent about sun protection or sunscreen use. I have succeeded in reversing a lot of the sun damage on my face, neck and chest with diligent use of well designed, high-quality AM and PM skincare routines, but again, I haven't been as careful with the skin on my arms and legs.

Fortunately, using Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves to protect the skin on my hands has really helped, especially when I'm in the car, running errands, or at an outdoor event for longer than two hours. Although my hands obviously show signs of age, they're fairly youthful for 71-year-old hands, with minimal wrinkles and only a few, small age spots, thanks in part to the Coolibar Unisex UV Gloves with UPF 50+ UV protection.

Author's hand close up
(Not sure what the strange reflection is!)

Why I Love These Sun Protection Gloves

The first pair of these gloves that I purchased two years ago were the Coolibar UPF 50+ Unisex Gannet UV Gloves (sun protection isn't just for women!) in the color Beige. I wear a woman's size 7 glove and the size Small fit me perfectly. The Gannet style comes just over the wrist.

The first thing I noticed was how soft and feather-light they felt. They’re made from Coolibar’s UCmax™ fabric, a blend of 87% polyester and 13% spandex with breathable micro-mesh and four-way stretch. They fit snugly but not tight, and they don’t make my hands sweaty. In fact, the Cooltect® technology wicks away moisture and keeps my hands feeling cool, even on hot days.

And the best part is that they block 98% of UVA and UVB rays, giving UPF 50+ protection without having to slather on sunscreen that washes off or needs reapplying every hour or two. Honestly, I almost forget that I’m wearing them because they’re so comfortable.

Wearing gloves and demonstrating touchscreen tips with mobile phone

Touchscreen-Friendly (So I Don't Need to Remove Them to Use My Phone)

One feature I use constantly is the touchscreen-compatible thumb and pointer fingertips. I can grab my phone, scroll, or send a quick text without peeling the gloves off and exposing my skin. It’s such a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in how practical they are for daily use.

Coolibar Gannet UPF 50+ sun protection UV gloves with zippered pouch

Perfect for the Car, Walks, Everyday Errands and Outdoor Events

I keep my UV gloves in my purse so I can easily slip them on whenever I go out. I love that they come with a zippered pouch to keep them clean and neat when not in use.

Since I don’t drive, I’m usually in the passenger seat and I like knowing my hands are protected from UV rays coming through the side windows. I wear these gloves while I'm walking, shopping, or sitting outside with a book. They’re just an easy habit now, like sunglasses or sunscreen on my face.

Coolibar UPF 50+ UV gloves in zippered pouch with tags

Need More Coverage? Try the Longer Version

When I looked at the sun damage on my arms recently, I decided to buy a pair of the Coolibar UPF 50+ Unisex Culebra UV Long Gloves as well. They use the same UCmax™ fabric and the same touchscreen-compatible thumb and pointer fingertips as the wrist-length Gannet style, but they extend well past your elbow. I reach for these when I’m wearing short sleeves or sleeveless tops or spending more time outdoors. It’s that extra layer of peace of mind against sun damage, especially at the beach.

Coolibar Culebra UPF 50+ sun protection long UV gloves with zippered pouch

A Great Gift for Gardeners and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Men or women who work outdoors or enjoy gardening, driving, spending time at the beach, walking for exercise or pleasure, and anyone else who spends time exposed to the sun (directly or indirectly) for extended periods of time could benefit from either style of these Coolibar UPF 50+ UV gloves. I think they would make a great gift, especially since they come nicely packaged in a matching zippered storage pouch.

Final Thoughts

Sun protection is a big deal for me, and not just because I want the skin on my hands and arms to look good as I get older. After seeing what skin cancer did to my dad, I take sun protection very seriously. The Coolibar Gannet UV Gloves make it effortless. They’re light, comfortable, easy to wash, and practical enough to wear every day. Plus, they save me from constantly reapplying sunscreen to my hands.

If you want even more coverage, the Culebra UV Long Gloves are just as good with added length for your forearms and part of your upper arms.

Both styles give you top-notch protection from a brand that’s trusted by dermatologists and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. For me, they’ve become a non-negotiable part of my daily routine, and the skin on my hands and arms is showing visible improvement. At the time of this post's publication, both styles were available on Amazon for $39. That's a small price to pay for protection against skin cancer and other types of unsightly damage from the sun's harmful UV rays.

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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Friday, June 13, 2025

Lap Desk or Serving Tray with Detachable Cushion Reviewed

Lap Desk or Serving Tray with Detachable Cushion
I prefer the comfort of my recliner to the straight back chairs at our dining tables or counter top, but I need a flat surface table top for paperwork and my smaller craft projects.  

Several years ago, I purchased a long, flat finished board that lays across the arms of my recliner to create a table top.  Unfortunately, it has no sides which limits its uses.  I recently went in search of a lap desk with sides and came across a serving tray that offers exactly what I need for paying bills, processing paperwork, and working on my small craft projects.  It even has an indention to keep a cup from sliding around on the table.  I use that recessed indentation in the top for holding pins and beads when crafting & my coffee cup when working on my paperwork.  It has proven to be perfect for my needs.

The lap tray I selected has a detachable cushion on the bottom of the tray which takes the full weight off my legs and serves to raise the height of the tray to a better position for writing.

 

Bamboo Lap Tray with Detachable Cushion

 Pickmesh Bamboo Lap Tray with Detachable Cushion Wood Bed Serving Tray - 16.9 x 13 Inch Wood Lap DeskCheck PriceI have several trays throughout my home, but none have been suitable for my lap writing desk needs until I found this lap tray with a cushion.  I hadn't previously considered how a cushion under the tray could make such a big difference.  The fabric on the cushion keeps the smooth tray from sliding around, plus it lifts the tray high enough to work on. 

The side handles allow me to easily pick up and carry the tray without disturbing whatever is laying on it.  Since it is so lightweight, I can grab the handles and stand straight up from a sitting position without straining under the weight to maintain balance.  

At 16.9 inches wide, it sits perfectly on my lap between the arms of my recliner.  Plus, the raised edges keep pens, craft supplies, silverware, plates, etc. from sliding off the tray.

I don't personally use it for "breakfast in bed", but I can see how it would be ideal for that use too.  Just as the cushion's fabric keeps the tray in place on my lap, I am sure it would keep the tray in place on top of sheets or bedspreads.

The cushion cover does have a zipper and the cover can be hand-washed.  I have not needed to wash my cover yet, but it is nice to know that I can when needed.

Of course, the cushion can be removed so the tray can be used for serving, if desired.  When we have company, I like being able to carry coffee and desserts to our guests without making several trips back and forth to the kitchen.  

 

lap desk

 



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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, June 3, 2025

The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder, A Book Review

The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder, A Book Review


I picked up The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder because the title intrigued me, and as an eBay seller fascinated by vintage finds, I was instantly drawn in. It turned out that author C.L. Miller’s novel is enjoyable as a murder mystery story as well as a look into the world of high-end antiques.

THE STORY


Freya, a former antique hunter, is pulled back into the world of antiques after the mysterious death of her friend and mentor, Arthur. With the help of her odd but interesting Aunt Carole, she deciphers clues Arthur left behind—his way of ensuring that, should anything suspicious happen to him, someone would investigate. Their search finds them at an antiques retreat in a grand manor, where the furnishings are actually replicas rather than originals, and the guests seem to have questionable motives.

REVIEWS


Goodreads reviewers give the book 3 1/2 stars calling it a mixed bag with good marks for the look into the world of antiques but lower marks for writing style. 

Bookshelf Soliloquies calls it a cozy mystery. Like me, writer Phoebe appreciated the glimpse into the world of antiques and, as she put it, the quirky characters. However, she, too had some discomfort with the writing style.

Amazon readers are a bit more generous, granting 4 stars and calling it ‘a very good read.’

Consensus amongst the many reviews that I read seems to be that the writing was a bit distracting, with some finding it a bit hard to get used to. I agree though I will add that I did get used to it and I did find the book more engaging as I went along.

RECOMMENDED


Who will enjoy this book? I recommend it for someone looking for a cozy mystery that is a bit more complex or for someone who is interested in antiques and the antique underworld. I will be reading the second book in the series, The Antique Hunter’s Death on the Red Sea.

Another strong pick? If you are also interested in a similar look into art and the art world, Jeffrey Archer’s False Impression is a riveting must-read. A real page turner. Read my full review of First Impression here.

If you haven't read The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder, find it here on Amazon. If you have read it and you enjoyed The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder, you’ll be pleased to know there’s more to read. The Antique Hunter’s Death on the Red Sea is next in the series, and with luck, both it and any future installments will be stronger and more captivating. 



Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Friday, May 23, 2025

Adjustable Needlework Lap & Table Stand with Scroll Frame Reviewed

needlework lap or table frame
For Mother's Day this year, my son gave me a fabulous needlework lap or table stand.  For many years, I have had a needlework stand with feet on the floor and I simply pull the stand feet under the couch to work.  However, now I find my recliner more comfortable for sitting, but my original stand's feet do not fit under the recliner.  I needed one with shorter legs so it would sit on the recliner cushion, between the recliner arms.  I thought that would be a difficult frame to find.  I was reluctant to request it as a gift because I suspected it would need to be specially made to meet my needs.  However, my son found the perfect needlework stand without having to pull out the table saw!

Anyone who stitches knows how important it is to have a comfortable work set-up.  For smaller needlework or cross stitch patterns, stitchers use a hand-held hoop to keep our cloth stationary and firmly in place so we can easily slide a needle through it.  However, larger patterns and fabric require a larger frame to hold our fabric.  

It is best to have a frame the same width as the fabric to keep from crimping the thread or floss under the frame.  For instance, the cross stitch picture shown in the photo, requires a 21" wide piece of aida cloth.  Therefore, I need an adjustable frame that will accommodate 21" wide fabric.  I also like to work with a scroll bar at the top and bottom so the fabric rolls around it without pressing down on and "crunching" the stitched thread or floss.  As the needlework progresses, it is easy to roll the fabric up to the desired height (in front of my eyes) without damaging the finished section.

Even though I do a lot of different crafts, cross stitch is my personal favorite after sewing.  Sewing requires a sewing machine.  Needlework or cross stitching can be done almost anywhere.  I have even been known to cross-stitch bookmarks during airport layovers.

As you can see, this cross-stitch stand with the scroll bar frame was the perfect Mother's Day gift for me!

 

Frank A. Edmunds 24" Adjustable Lap & Table Stand with Scroll Frame

 Frank A. Edmunds 5850 Adjustable Lap & Table Stand with Scroll Frame, 8.5" x 24"Check Price This needlework frame is designed to sit over your lap.  It holds the fabric in place and frees up both hands to stitch.  I use my right hand on the front side of the frame and my left hand behind it so I have a constant stitch action going.

When I need extra light over my pattern or work, I clip a gooseneck lamp on the frame or wear my lighted magnifier glasses. It may all look rather strange to someone observing me stitch, but it works and that is what matters.

The needlework frame and stand are very easy to assemble.  No tools are required.  All of the wood pieces have the holes pre-drilled for the screw bolts, which are held in place with wing nuts.

  • The frame legs have 3 holes so they can be adjusted for just the right height.
  • Adjust the frame width by sliding the side bars of the frame across the round scroll bars (dowel bars) and lock in place by tightening the screw bolts on the wing nuts.  (Be careful not to over-tighten it!  Wood is not flexable)
  • Adjust the frame itself to your preferred angle with the side screw bolt. 
  • Stores easily by simply taking it apart and putting it back in the original packaging.

 

I love both of my needlework frames.  My new lap & table stand for sitting in the chair with me, as well as my original floor-standing frame. 



 

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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Reviewing Benefits And Features Of Talking Clocks

 .Black and white colour contrast talking clock


Since my husband was diagnosed as severe sight impaired -blind, we have been exploring technology and devices that may help him. One of these we were advised to look into is a talking clock. 

This simple device is designed to audibly announce the time, and the date. For the model we have you simply press the top once for the time and keep it held down for the date to be announced as well.

It is of course very useful for anyone who has sight loss. However we have found it is also useful for me when I quickly want to know the time and date and through learning more about them I realised they can be very beneficial for many other people as well.

In this article we will be using the terms severe sight impaired, blind, low vision, partially sighted and sight loss as these are the current acceptable terms in my country for people with sight loss. This may change over time and be different in different countries. No offence is intended by any of these terms.

Empowering People With Sight Loss

For people who experience sight loss whether they are severe sight impaired or have low vision, checking the time can be a significant challenge and not being able to tell the time by yourself can be a real curb on independence. 

Prior to getting the talking clock my husband had to ask me the time whenever he wanted to know. This immediately made him feel less independent and for me it was not always convenient. For my husband it was a constant reminder of his sight loss that he had to ask a sighted person whenever he needed or wanted to know the time. 

Traditional clocks rely on us being able to read the numbers or roman numerals often at a distance. Some are very difficult to see if they have patterns or pictures and different colours. People with any degree of sight loss will have different needs and preferences.

My husband needs very clear bold black numbers on a white background with zero distractions and it needs to be very large. The clock would also need to be free from sunlight or glare hitting it, yet bright enough so he can make out the numbers. This is not always possible and we quickly realised it would be difficult to site such a large clock and give it the correct site to make it possible for him to read it. 

The talking clock eliminates this barrier completely by providing a clear, spoken announcement of the time with the press of a button or depending on the clock also the date or even via scheduled verbal alerts.

A talking clock can really help towards independence, allowing people with sight loss of varying degrees  to manage their daily routines without needing assistance from a sighted person.

You can choose a basic talking clock that can help you by simply telling the time and knowing the correct date, or more advanced models. Either way a talking clock gives a much higher level of independence.


 Extra Large Talking Button Clock - for The Blind, Elderly or Visually impairedCheck Price


Some talking clocks do not have any readable indicators while others may have a digital reading of date, time etc in large text. It all depends on what you personally need and find useful. 

The advanced models can do many tasks and have different features. I have listed some features here to give you an idea of what can be available. 

  • Tell the time
  • Tell the date.
  • Set alarms
  • Organise appointment and social dates
  • Birthday and special day reminders
  • Chime on the hour
  • Reminders to take medication
  • Different levels of brightness on the display 
  • Customisable themes.
  • Customisable language
  • Lighting differentiates time zones during the day/night
  • Temperature readouts
  • Activated by voice controlled commands.
  • Some with no visual display, others with large size and contrasting visual displays


Talking Clock showing large black button on white contrast
Black and white contrast talking clock showing large button to activate


 Who Else Could Benefit From A Talking Clock? 

Clearly a talking clock can assist people with a visual impairment. However it does not stop there.

It got me thinking who else may benefit from a talking clock and I believe it may help older people who might have difficulty reading clock faces from a distance, perhaps even young children who need to know the time and have not yet reliably learned to read a clock face or digital clocks.

They would be a useful aid for people who cannot learn to tell the time on a clock, or for people who through various illnesses, learning difficulties, disabilities, who have memory issues, or dementia find reading a standard clock more challenging.

Additionally, talking clocks might benefit elderly people who may struggle with small text on standard clocks, and the advanced models might assist professionals who need to keep track of their schedule.

Talking clocks simplify timekeeping, and if technology is for anything surely it should be to make our lives a little easier. 


【Upgraded】Digtal Clock with Voice-Talking Day and Date for Seniors, 19 Alarms & Custom Reminders, 10-Level Auto Dimmer, Auto DST, 8 Colors Display Clock for Elderly Dementia Alzheimers, with Remote【Upgraded】Digtal Clock with Voice-Talking Day and Date for Seniors, 19 Alarms & Custom Reminders, 10-Level Auto Dimmer, Auto DST, 8 Colors Display Clock for Elderly Dementia Alzheimers, with RemoteCheck Price


Talking Clocks Are Convenient

Clearly talking clocks are a useful aid for a person with sight loss. However as we have found they can also be really beneficial to those with out sight loss. We now have several talking clocks around the house in places we regularly walk past and I now find my self using the talking clock much more than the sighted clock!

It is very unobtrusive, ours is a simple black and white device  certainly small enough to carry and light. It manages to both blend into the decor and yet be noticeable enough so my husband knows where it is.

Other clocks may have different colours such as blue, red or yellow and be smaller or larger. Many can be placed on a surface and some can be wall mounted. It all depends on what the person prefers. 

I especially use it for knowing the date especially if I don't have the computer or TV on. I often don't have the right glasses on to see our wall clocks and it is so convenient to punch the talking clock as I walk past and get the time and date so easily. 

You can buy talking clocks that are very simple and so easy to use with just the time and date or you can get advanced ones with a multitude of features and tasks. 

It has become a normal way to tell the time in our house. We didn't plan it this way but it does make my husband feel better that we just use his talking clock as a normal device, rather than just his special device to tell the time. 


 ORKA Talking Clock. Voice Recordable Ex Large Medication Pill Reminder. Talking Alarm Clock for Dementia, Hearing, Visually impaired Seniors-Digital Day Clock with Multiple Customized Alarms WhiteCheck Price



Aspects Of Talking Clocks To Be Aware About.

While I think generally they are a huge benefit, there are a few things to be aware of. 

Talking clocks can be run on batteries or plugged into electricity points, both have their good and bad points. We have the ones run on batteries and felt these were more portable, so that they can be taken into different rooms and taken with us on holiday. Clearly we need to make sure we always have a stock of replacement batteries either single use or ideally rechargeable.

If we had an electric model it could be plugged in around the house without the need or worry to keep a stock of batteries handy.  However, there is always the risk that in the event of a power cut or power outage it of course would not work. It is important if buying an electrical one to ensure that the features and time automatically reset after a power cut or outage is over. 

The solution is probably to have one of each, some of the electric models seem to carry more features, yet the battery ones are simpler, easy to use and more portable.  

By the very fact the talking clock is a fairly loud announcement of the time, it is impossible to privately check the time! So for example if you just wanted to check the time to see if guests ought to be leaving or a meeting has gone on too long, it is really a public announcement. They are not ideal in situations where discretion is required!

A talking clock can take a little time to get used to. At first my husband did keep asking me the time and I reminded him to use the talking clock, after a few days or weeks it is just a normal habit.

The fact it is an audible time check can be disturbing if there are others in the house having quiet time or sleeping.

It may be more disruptive if there are several people in the house, who may not want to know the time in this way and might find it disturbing.  

While it is loud enough, if the environment was noisy or lots of people were talking or music playing it might be more difficult to clearly hear it. 

You need to choose the clock voice that works best for you. It all depends on the model if you can customise the voice and some of the voices might not suit you. Some voices are clearer and more calm than others. So it is worth checking which voice the model uses and if you are able to customise it.


 GOLOZA 7'' Digital Calendar Clock, Talking Clock with 10 Volumes, 6 Display with 10 Color Modes, Auto Dimmable, Alarms & Birthday & Holiday Reminders, 3 Pill Reminders Clocks for Kids Adults SeniorsCheck Price


We both feel the positives far outweigh any negatives and now would not be without it. We agreed at the outset of my husbands diagnosis of severe sight impaired that we would do everything possible to maintain his personal autonomy and independence. This little device of a talking clock has certainly been very helpful in this respect. 


Advancements in Talking Clock Technology

Our talking clocks are models that tell the time and date and can be used to set an alarm. At the present we are happy with these features but there are models that can do much more. 

There are a range of talking clocks now from the basic time and date clock to ones which integrate with smart devices and use Artificial Intelligence. 

Some have customised features or a choice of features and languages. As mentioned previously there are talking clocks which also set date reminders, medicine reminders and alarms. 

Of course there are also talking watches which is on our wish list for something else to help my husband. 

Technology is advancing and if it can assist in keeping people more independent for as long as possible that is a positive. 


I think a talking clock would make a very thoughtful gift for anyone who is finding it difficult to see or read a standard clock. 

It might seem a small thing, many of us take for granted until we cannot do it,  but being able to tell the time and date by yourself is a huge deal for self esteem and independence.  

As the talking clock technology evolves I think it will become increasingly useful and versatile, not only for people who are sight impaired, but for many people. 


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