I would like to know what products are out there to assist a patient with diabetes who is blind and has limited function of both hands. He needs to be able to check his own blood glucose levels. He has a talking monitor, but it is time sensitive and is unable to be pre-loaded with the strip. This patient also has difficulty with pricking his finger. Do you have any suggestions? I am desperate to help this guy.

It sounds like your patient is very challenged by his diabetes and the tools available for the visually impaired are less than perfect. Currently, we do not have any other talking monitors on the market but new ones are being developed all the time and we are in great hopes that something better will come along. Regarding the time issue, has your patient tried to get his drop of blood first, before turning on the meter and inserting the strip? Also, some of my visually impaired patients have used a special platform to push against the finger so the drop of blood will fall onto the round circle of the LifeScan strip.

I’m sorry I don’t have anything else to suggest. I hope you have also consulted with your local Blind Center and get their assistance in looking for adaptive ways to help your patient.

KS

[Editor’s comment: There are many products out there for the visually impaired. The American Association of Diabetes Educators used to have a guide of products for the visually impaired. If they don’t still have it, they can put you in touch with someone in their visually impaired specialty practice group who can help you find everything you’re looking for.

SS]