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 for you:
Getting Organized:

• Develop a system so you know where your utensils, spices and ingredients are stored. Make sure that other family members are aware so they return things to their proper places.
• Label containers with large print or Braille as well as tactile markings to distinguish similar types of containers or the right setting on an oven or microwave. Wrap a rubber band around the juice container, for example, to distinguish it from the milk.
• 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 the knob to various temp settings. You can smell toast getting brown to know it’s done or burning. Meat is brown when it is rough to touch.
• Know your lighting needs. Install under- the-counter lighting and/or use gooseneck, adjustable arm lamps to position light directly on your work area. Seat yourself so windows are behind you or to your side.
• 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 open or fully closed. Contrasting tape on the insides or backs of cabinet doors can make it easier to tell if one is open. Install contrasting knobs or handles.
• Use a cutting board that contrasts in color with the items you are cutting. Long-armed oven mitts, dish towels, and utensils that contrast with countertops are easier to find.
• 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 more accurate and easier to use than a standard measuring cup. They come in a variety of colors so you can utilize color contrast techniques.

• Many appliance manufacturers offer large-print or Braille dials, overlays, contrasting- color features and marking kits. Ask before you buy. Otherwise, a Home Independence Instructor from Sight Loss Services can mark your buttons and dials for you.
• The George Foreman Grill allows you to cook food on both sides simultaneous-ly, without setting dials or needing to flip or turn the food.
• Install counter level outlets for easy access.
• Toaster ovens, coffeemakers, and microwaves may be safer and easier to use for heating than the oven or stove.

• Audio record your recipes for easy access. There are cookbooks available in large print or Braille, as well as audiocassette.
• Pay attention to the sounds of food cooking. Listen to the rolling, bubbling noise that becomes louder and more forceful as water boils. Wait to hear the popping of frying food to know it is browning. When the sounds die down, food is usually ready to be turned.
• As food cooks, odors change. Often you can smell something when it is done such as when cookies are baked.
• Smell spices before you sprinkle. There’s nothing like mistaking pepper for cinnamon.

• Position a liquid level indicator on the side of the cup or glass to keep from over-pouring.
• Use your index finger to position the spout over the edge of the cup or glass. Remove your finger quickly before pouring hot liquid.
• Compare the weight of an empty glass with one that is partially or completely full.
• Use a tray, bowl, or pan with short sides to support your glass and confine any possible spillage. Or pour over the sink.
• Pour dark liquid, such as coffee, into a light-colored cup and vice versa.

• Use contrasting plates, tablecloths, placemats, and napkins. Use light or dark- colored plates, glasses, or cups to contrast with food and beverages.
• Plates that are pattern-free make locating food easier.
• Use tinted rather than clear glasses for greater visibility.
• Push chairs under tables.
• Use a tablecloth to cut the glare from shiny or polished surfaces such Formica tabletops.
• Eat in a well-lit area. Sunshine streaming into a room can cause glare. Consider adjustable windows curtains or shades.

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