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BeMyEyes.com wants volunteers
The app helps blind and visually impaired patients negotiate their world.
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BeMyEyes.com is an incredible app that allows an international group of volunteers — speaking dozens of languages — to help blind and visually impaired people with simple tasks. There are more than 2 million sighted volunteers in the Be My Eyes community who give assistance in more than 180 languages.
The visually impaired person uses the camera on his/her smartphone to show the volunteer a problem and gets instant assistance. It usually takes the volunteer less than a minute to help the user.
What are the 10 most common ways in which people use Be My Eyes for assistance?
1. Finding lost or dropped items. For instance, where did I put my tennis visor? Where is that earring back that I dropped on the floor?
2. Describing pictures, paintings or other works of art. For example, what is the mood of this sculpture? What is depicted in this painting, and what are the colors?
3. Matching or explaining colors. For instance, which are the black shoes? Does this shirt and tie match my suit?
4. Reading labels on household products. For example, is this shampoo or conditioner? Is this window or bathroom cleaner? Which button do I push to start my new dishwasher?
5. Reading computer screens if websites are inaccessible or screen readers are not available. For example, my laptop suddenly restarted; can you please walk me through the login screen?
6. Shopping in supermarkets. For instance, which kind of soup am I buying?
7. Identifying the expiration date on perishable food packages. For instance, what is the expiration date of my bread or milk?
8. Familiarizing oneself with new places. For example, is this the street I am looking for? Where is the power outlet in this room?
9. Distinguishing between food items. For instance, is this paprika or cayenne pepper? Are these green beans or black beans?
10. Finding out when public transportation is departing or arriving. For example, how many minutes does the screen say that I have until the next train departs?
According to BeMyEyes.com, anyone can download the app and register for free on their phone; it is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store.
The volunteer or patient can then launch the app to register, which involves selecting the user type (sighted volunteer or blind/low vision user); choosing whether one wants to sign up with Facebook or email; confirming one’s email address; selecting one’s primary language (it is possible to change one’s preference and to add secondary languages in settings later); and allowing access to the microphone, camera and notifications. It is recommended that the volunteers and users keep their app updated to enjoy new features that will be added over time.
When visually impaired people prepare for their first call, they are given guidance to make it easier for the volunteer to assist them. They are asked to accommodate any directions the volunteer gives them so that they can get a clearer view or locate the information that is needed. They are asked to be sure that the camera is steady so that the picture is focused. If there is a specific item involved, it helps to place the item on a steady surface. It is important that the room is not too noisy and properly lit. Also important: a good Internet connection. Lastly, it is suggested that users let volunteers know that they appreciate their help.
When it is time for the patient to call about a task that needs visual assistance, the caller can access a random volunteer or a specific business or organization. The patient’s screen presents two options: “Call first available volunteer” and “Specialized help.” With the first option, the patient will be connected with a volunteer. With the second, a list of available businesses and organizations will be presented. The majority of calls are connected within half a minute. If need be, the volunteer can remotely turn on the user’s flashlight for greater visibility.
If a volunteer is busy when a call is received, the app will find the next available volunteer and connect the user. Each request is sent to multiple volunteers at a time to ensure that user will get assistance as quickly as possible.
Volunteers say the satisfaction that they feel is indescribable; they feel useful and joyful. They are grateful for the sight that allows them to help a visually impaired person.
- Reference:
- Be My Eyes. www.bemyeyes.com.
- For more information:
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Marguerite B. McDonald, MD, FACS, can be reached at Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island, 360 Merrick Road, Lynbrook, NY 11563; email: margueritemcdmd@aol.com.
Disclosure: McDonald reports no relevant financial disclosures.