Help for Richard

I realize I'm posting late this week and I apologize to all who may have the time to check back and read this. I was in San Antonio, TX from last Wednesday night until Monday afternoon. I went to see my son graduate from the Air Force Basic Training. It has been a great and emotional weekend!!!
In looking over Closing the Gap articles, there were several options that were mentioned in some of the articles that I felt might help Richard. One device that I read about was the Aladdin Companion which is a full featured video magnifier for people with low vision. Some of the features of this product were magnification from 2.8x to 14x of printed or written material for individuals with low vision problems. It also includes built-in lighting for reading materials, simplified controls, a 9-inch viewing screen, and a built-in handle. It also has accessories that are available with it such as a carrying case, a moveable viewing table, and a cable for connection to a TV for even larger viewing options. The article stated that it was low weight at less than 20 pounds. This was the only thing that concerned me about it. To me that sounds slightly heavy. Although it states that it is compact and portable, it still sounds slightly heavy which would make me think it might be cumbersome. It would still be an option for Richard to use at home for his reading. It could help relieve the strain he feels as he reads.
Another thing that I thought Richard might enjoy were Podcasts. The article described these as "radio on demand." No ipod would be required, actually. All that is needed is a computer and good internet access. So if reading was too much of a strain for Richard, he could select a Podcast and listen. The age of technology! You've got to love it! There are so many more options and products available now for individuals in Richard's situation. I think Richard just needs to experiment with these options and see which ones he prefers. I know that I used to think I didn't care to have an ipod . . . I mean what did I need one for? But I got one for Christmas and I absolutely love it! You just never know until you actually try some of these new technologies out how they may affect your life and how much you may enjoy them.
Angela