Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for People Who Are Blind or Have Vision Loss

Valentine’s Day is a time to show your love to the special people in your life — and it’s just around the corner! You know how you feel, but it can be tricky to find that perfect gift to express yourself.

According to American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), 2016 National Health Institute Survey data found that 25.5 million American adults (about 10%) "either 'have trouble' seeing, even when wearing glasses or contact lenses, or... are blind or unable to see at all."

There are many products available for the special people in your life with a visual disability. Here are just a few.

Gift ideas to celebrate Valentine's Day

For the cook

• Clear, large-print measuring cups and spoons. These measuring utensils have clear white letters against a dark background, making the measurements easier to see.
• Braille 60-minute timer. This timer features tactile Braille markings, visual markings, and a large turning knob.
• Low-vision black-and-white cutting board. Perfect for cutting darker foods against the white side, and lighter foods against the black side.

For the reader

• Electronic digital magnifiers. Available in a wide variety of size, portability, and optimal tasks, magnifying systems can drastically improve readability.
• Audio books. Also popular with sighted readers, there are a ton of audio book options out there now that allow those with vision loss to enjoy spoken narratives.

For the techie

• iPad. One of Apple's most popular products also has powerful accessibility options built in.
• Kindle Fire tablet. The budget-friendly tablet from Amazon has a large display and Alexa built-in.
• PenFriend voice labeling system. This new voice labeling system lets people "easily record, and re-record, information onto self-adhesive labels."
• Office products, like bold print pens, large print address books, and digital tape recorders.

For anyone

Everyone loves a sweet Valentine's Day card, but it's not always easy to find one that doesn't rely on strong vision.

• Braille greeting cards. AFB compiled this great list of organizations that make Braille greeting cards available.
• Multisensory Valentines. Send a bright and funny print and Braille Valentine.
• Braille-inspired greeting cards from the Chicago Lighthouse.
• Send a secret message with Braille Bug®.

Happy Valentine's Day, from the Bureau of Internet Accessibility

We love when all people are able to independently use the websites and apps that connect us. If you have any questions about making your digital presence more accessible, talk to us.

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