Seeing AI: A guide to assistive technology supporting people with low vision
Sunday, November 3, 2024 |
11:10 AM - 11:20 AM |
Panorama Rooms 2 & 3 |
Overview
Vincent Nguyen
Speaker
Mr Vincent Nguyen
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT
Seeing AI: A guide to assistive technology supporting people with low vision
Abstract
Seeing AI, a pioneering assistive technology application developed by Microsoft, caters specifically to individuals with low vision and blindness. Available at no cost on both Apple and Android devices, this innovative tool is capable of recognizing text and objects through the device’s camera. Users can simply point the camera at various items such as scenes, people, currency notes, and handwritten text and receive detailed audio descriptions. This functionality extends to both near and distance vision tasks, including the ability to read street signs and other textual information within the community.
While the education and implementation of this application is standard in low vision rehabilitation services, its adoption within clinical settings could further enhance patient care. Demonstrating the use of Seeing AI to patients in waiting rooms, whether they are awaiting ophthalmology consultations or injection appointments, could serve as a valuable adjunct to their traditional vision treatment regimen. This abstract seeks to educate clinical orthoptists on the comprehensive features and functionalities of Seeing AI, thereby empowering them to assist their patients in effectively utilizing this transformative tool. The aim is to ensure that orthoptists are well-versed in this technology, enabling them to integrate it seamlessly into patient care and enhance the overall rehabilitation experience.
While the education and implementation of this application is standard in low vision rehabilitation services, its adoption within clinical settings could further enhance patient care. Demonstrating the use of Seeing AI to patients in waiting rooms, whether they are awaiting ophthalmology consultations or injection appointments, could serve as a valuable adjunct to their traditional vision treatment regimen. This abstract seeks to educate clinical orthoptists on the comprehensive features and functionalities of Seeing AI, thereby empowering them to assist their patients in effectively utilizing this transformative tool. The aim is to ensure that orthoptists are well-versed in this technology, enabling them to integrate it seamlessly into patient care and enhance the overall rehabilitation experience.
Biography
Vincent Nguyen is a dedicated and experienced orthoptist who graduated from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in 2019. After gaining valuable experience in private practice for two years, Vincent transitioned to a role at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, where he has been working for the past three years. Based in the Central Coast, Newcastle, and New England region, Vincent serves as a community orthoptist, providing essential eye care and support to individuals with vision impairments. In addition to his community work, Vincent holds the position of Practice Lead of Low Vision Orthoptic Services for NSW/ACT, where he leads a team of orthoptists with efforts to enhance and expand low vision services across the state
