Since I created the systems, and published three books with instructions for audible and tactile methods of labeling, I felt obligated to find an alternative method of making raised letters. At last, an inexpensive labeling kit has been developed. Maxi-Aids cooperated with me, and found sources of items that made it possible to have a small plastic box of materials for tactile labeling. It will cost under $20, and the visually impaired can use it unassisted. It can be used to label the color of clothing and thread, items in the freezer or pantry, file folders, or anything that you wish to be able to identify later. It is portable and can be taken from room to room or on a trip, and inexpensive enough that you may want to have an extra box in another area of the house.
The small plastic box contains peel-off raised letters with braille under each letter; 50 blank labels to place the raised letters on (blank labels have a hole in which to slip-knot a rubber band) for attaching to any item that needs to be identified, 50 rubber bands, 50 safety pins for attaching to clothing, identification dots for marking appliances and computers, and a 20/20 pen for printing large print for those who can read it.
Since the 3M Company stopped producing products for the blind, Maxi-Aids found a source for 3/4-inch peel-off tape for the large print labeler for those with the good fortune to possess the 3M EA200 labeler. The 3M EA200 labeler may still be found on the Internet. Maxi-Aids has also found a replacement for the braille labeler and the half-inch adhesive tape to use with it.
I am very grateful to Maxi-Aids for cooperating with me and producing many needed items. This tactile labeling kit along with the Voxcom completes the audible and tactile method of labeling that I have developed through the years. My newest book, "Access to Information for the Blind," available from Maxi-Aids, updates all the information. The labeling information is included along with chapters on identifying money, sighted guide techniques, braille, nutrition, helpful hints and much more.
"Access to Information for the Blind" can be self-taught or be used to certify vision aides. I am working with my local community college for the book to be used as a guide for writing their curriculum to certify vision aides for private employment and to create a source of vision aides from home care agencies. I suggest other individuals contact the head of programming in their local community colleges, and interest them in offering this class in their certified nursing assistant programs.
(Editor's Note: You can reach Maxi-Aids at 1-800-522-6294.)