The following procedures described are not the only methods that can be used, and not every blind or visually impaired person will use these techniques. The devices discussed in the following procedures can be ordered from catalogues listed in the Arizona Directory of Services for Persons who are Blind & Visually Impaired.

Labeling
Color Contrast
Money Management
Signature Guide
Telephone Use
Meal Management
Clothing Selection
Needle Threading
Telling Time
Inserting Keys
Diabetic Aids
Assistive Technology

Labeling
Labeling is used to readily identify items that are used daily. There are two labeling systems that can be used: Braille and non-Braille. Braille labels can be made using vinyl labeling tape, magnetic tape, plastic, paper, or any item that can be Brailled using a slate and stylus, Braille writer, or Braille labeler. Examples of the non-Braille system include large print, embossed letters, plastic letters, rubber bands, glue, bright-colored paint, nail polish, or any other method that would help identify an item visually or tactually. Either method can be used on appliances, canned goods, clothing, thermostats or other items.

For example, place a dot of fabric puff paint at 350 degrees on your oven dial for a reference. An important point to remember when labeling an item is that raised markings are easier to feel than recessed markings. Also, large print is more effective when used with color contrast.

Color Contrast
Color contrast is one of the ways to make items more visible. A light-colored liquid rising to the top of a dark container, or a dark liquid rising to the top of a light container are examples. It is helpful if backgrounds can be flexible, for example, utilizing light and dark linens, or contrasting napkins and placemats for light and dark dinnerware.

There is no need to rearrange your environment. However, in a room where there are mostly dark tones, a significant feature can be picked out by placing a contrasting item on it. For example, a light-colored book on a coffee table or a light-colored pillow on a dark chair. Color contrast is especially effective for reading and writing. Black letters on a white background or white letters on a black background are easier to see than most other color combinations. Bright-colored yellow or pink acetate sheets placed over reading material can help diminish the glare of a white background without altering the visibility of the black letters. Specialty lighting can also be effective. Other methods of reading can include Braille, tape recordings, or electronic media which, for some people, may be more efficient.

Money Management
Coins may be identified using the size and the edge of the coin. For example, a nickel is small and has a smooth edge, in comparison to a quarter, which is large and has a rough edge. Paper money may be identified by folding it different ways based on denomination.

For example, a $1 bill can be kept flat and a $5 bill can be folded in half. Raised line checks are available from most banks. Although slightly larger in size, the appearance and format of these checks are identical to a regular check. Banks also provide check registers in large print. An alternative to raised line or large print checks is a check-writing template, cut from a piece of firm plastic or cardboard, which fits over a regular check.

Signature Guide
A signature guide is a piece of firm plastic, thin cardboard, or other material with a centered rectangular cutout.

Telephone Use
Free Directory Assistance is available. You can apply for this by contacting US West (1-800-223-3131) or a regional blindness specialist. Most people can use a touch tone phone that has been marked. If not, other alternatives are available.

Meal Management
Food Identification:
An easy way to identify the placement of food on a plate is the clock method. For example, meat at 6:00, potatoes at 9:00, and vegetables at 2:00. If seasonings are to be used, pour the amount needed into your hand, take a pinch and sprinkle over the food.

Pouring Beverages:
There are a variety of methods than can be used depending on which one is easiest. One method is to hook the index finger of one hand over the rim of the glass and pour until you feel the liquid. You may not want to use this method with hot liquids. Hot and cold liquids can be detected from the outside of many containers or by judging the weight of the container as it fills. For the low vision person the use of color contrast may be beneficial.

Clothing Selection
Clothing can be sorted by color, outfit, or categories. Clothes may be hung in the closet by: