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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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