Tech Group Workshops Help Those with Low Vision Improve Quality of Life

There was a time when Rhonda Johnson, MBA, had to constantly strain her eyes and struggle to read emails at work. But then she learned she could use her phone for more than texting and talking – she could use it as a life tool.

That is thanks to her participation in the Technology Group Workshops offered by The Eye Institute (TEI) of Drexel University, in the Oak Lane section of Philadelphia.

“This group has helped me to improve my daily living. It has alleviated some of the stress I was feeling when at work or out in public. My life has definitely changed and improved for the better,” said Johnson. “I no longer have the fear and anxiety that I once had with trying to figure out labels and signs, or just asking someone to help me. Now I can just pull out my phone and use the apps.”

The Technology Group, which started in July 2025, is the brainchild of Dawn Ciccarone, MS, OTR/L, CLVT, low vision occupational therapist, in the William Feinbloom Vision Rehabilitation Center, housed at TEI. Participants learn how to use the Seeing AI app with four applications – read, document, describe, and more (color and money icons).

“Many of our patients can't afford low vision devices but have phones,” she said. “The tech group helps them download the apps and learn how to use them to become independent with their everyday activities.” 

According to Ciccarone, group participants practice with real-life tasks. They receive hands-on training using the Seeing AI (Auditory App) and two magnification apps (Supervision+ and HumanWare Explore) to read money, articles, soup labels, prices, and more. Low vision therapists, social worker Christine McBennett, MSW, LSW, and fourth-year Doctor of Optometry student interns from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Drexel, help participants open the app, navigate between applications, hold the camera at the correct distance, or even locate their camera or hold the camera correctly on the reading material.

“We help wherever our patients get stuck in the process. We provide compensatory strategies and environmental adaptations to foster success,” she said. “The group works together to learn the apps and successfully achieve their goals.”

Johnson decided to join the group, which meets from 1 to 3 p.m. on the second Thursday every month at TEI, to become more familiar and knowledgeable about the new technology apps and equipment available to those with low vision. She’s learned that there are apps to help her, for example, catch a ride on public transportation or to navigate the grocery store.

“When this group was presented to me, I was quite excited to join and learn what was available. And, I was quite surprised with the team and with learning new things,” said Johnson. “This team is highly knowledgeable in showing the group members how to use these apps and devices on their phones.”

Ciccarone added research has shown app education and training for low vision individuals is essential for their success in leading a normal life.

“I wanted to create a group for people with low vision loss to learn technology together,” she said. “I had no idea how special this group would become. Each month, our participants not only learn how to be more independent but also share their stories. It’s such a special experience for not only our members but also the facilitators. We have learned so much about their personal journeys living with vision loss.”  

Johnson wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Technology Group Workshops to anyone with low vision who wants to utilize the available technology for quality of life improvements.

“This group is needed so much in our society for those with low vision, as it will help them to live a normal and productive life,” she said. “This group is the best, and I thank them for this service.”