Kitchen Adaptation for the Visually Impaired

Whether you are preparing a meal for one or a feast for family and friends, there are ways to make your kitchen work for you. Lighthouse International has some tips which we have compiled in a large print/audio cassette booklet available for you. Here is just a sample of their tips:

• Store your utensils, spices and ingredients in specific places. Tell family so they return them to the right places.
• Label containers with large print, Braille or tactile markings to distinguish similar types of containers or the right setting on an oven or microwave.
• Use all your senses. Touch and hearing can help you identify ingredients and operate appliances. Shake cans of soup to distinguish between a cream soup and a can of noodle soup. Some stove dials click as you turn them to various settings. You can smell toast as it darkens. Meat feels rough when it is browned.
• Use under-the-counter lighting and/or gooseneck, adjustable arm lamps over your work area. Face away from windows
• If you have a video magnifier or cassette player, position it on your counter or nearby to easily access your recipes.
• Keep cabinet doors fully closed. Contras-ting tape on the insides or backs of the doors makes it easier to see an open one Install contrasting knobs or handles.
• Use a cutting board that contrasts in color with what you are cutting. Use long-armed oven mitts, dish towels, and utensils that contrast with surfaces.
• Use a timer when heating foods. You’ll know when the food is done and be reminded to turn off the appliance.
• Divided measuring cups are easier to use than a standard measuring cup. They come in a variety of colors so you can utilize color contrast techniques.
• Many appliance makers offer large-print or Braille dials, overlays, or marking kits. Otherwise, a Home Independence Instructor from Sight Loss Services can mark buttons or dials for you.
• The George Foreman Grill allows you to cook both sides without setting dials or needing to flip or turn the food.
• Toaster ovens, coffeemakers, and microwaves may be safer and easier to use for heating than the oven or stove.
• Pay attention to the sounds of food cooking. Listen to the rolling, bubbling noise that becomes louder and more forceful as water boils. Fried food pops when it is browning. When the sounds die down, food is ready to be turned.
• As food cooks, odors change such as the way cookies smell when they are baked.
• Smell spices before you sprinkle. Nothing like mistaking pepper for cinnamon!
• Position a liquid level indicator on the side of the cup to keep from over-pouring.
• Use your index finger to position a spout over the edge of a cup or glass. Remove it before pouring hot liquid.
• When pouring, use a tray, bowl, or pan with short sides to support your glass and confine any possible spillage.
• Pour dark liquid, such as coffee, into a light-colored cup and vice versa.
• Plates that are pattern-free make locating food easier.
• Tinted glasses are easier to see than clear

Call our office for your copy of the booklet

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