For some people with sight loss, they are a visual aid.
Recent media coverage has raised understandable concerns about privacy and the misuse of smart glasses to record people without their consent. Those concerns deserve to be taken seriously, but there is another side to this conversation.
For people who are blind or partially sighted, smart glasses can read text, identify objects, describe surroundings and provide valuable assistance with everyday tasks. They can offer greater confidence, independence and access to information.
Unfortunately, the growing suspicion surrounding smart glasses means that people using them because of a disability may feel judged, challenged or discouraged from using technology that genuinely helps them.
That is why The Partially Sighted Society is producing a new lanyard carrying the message:
“I HAVE SIGHT LOSS. I USE SMART GLASSES AS A VISUAL AID.”
It gives the wearer a simple way to explain their use of the glasses, without repeatedly having to justify themselves.
This is not about dismissing legitimate privacy concerns. It is about recognising the difference between misuse and assistive use, and helping people with sight loss take control of that conversation.
With greater understanding, we believe privacy and accessibility can both be respected.
We hope this lanyard will help prevent misunderstandings, encourage more positive conversations and give people with sight loss greater confidence to use the technology that supports their independence.
We would really value your thoughts. Could a lanyard like this make a difference to you or someone you know?
Available from our online shop: https://www.partsight.org.uk/smart-glasses-visual-aid...