Vision Buddy Helps Traditions at North Bend Resident Stay Connected to the World Around Him

“Like Christmas in July!” That was Lou Amshoff’s reaction the first time he used Vision Buddy. Lou, a resident at Traditions at North Bend, was fitted with the device this summer after a typical afternoon trip to the mailbox set off a chain of events shaped by chance, curiosity, and the kindness of strangers.

While living in Harrison, Ohio, Lou received a postcard announcing an Eye Institute event in Dayton. Diagnosed with macular degeneration and guided by an open mind and a strong sense of curiosity, he decided to attend. His son offered to drive him to the event, where a woman helped him try a few different low-vision options. “The machines were BIG!” Lou recalled. “It told you, ‘Right, please,’ ‘Up, please,’ ‘Ask a question.’” Lou was not interested in something that large, so he shared his thoughts. The woman mentioned there was a newer, smaller option and then kindly offered to stop by his home on her way home with a different device, on her own time.

Vision Buddy is that smaller device. It looks a little like the virtual reality headsets kids use for video games, but it connects directly to a person’s television so they can watch comfortably. That compassionate home visit ultimately connected Lou and his family with Dennis McKinney at Advanced Low Vision Technology. Dennis changed careers after his mother began losing her vision, and today he is dedicated to connecting evolving technology with individuals like Lou.

Dennis became another link in this chain of kindness when he connected Lou’s family with the local Veterans Association. Lou served as a Seaman First Class during World War II and qualified to have Vision Buddy covered by the VA.

Connection

The days can be long without the ability to see clearly. Vision Buddy allows Lou to watch his favorite classic cowboy shows, Matlock, and The Lawrence Welk Show on Saturdays. Many of us understand the comfort of familiar television shows and the music we loved growing up. Perhaps even more importantly, the device allows Lou to watch the Cincinnati Reds, the Bengals, and major golf tournaments. Sports spark conversation and connection across generations and among residents. Lou may not be able to swing a golf club as he used to, something he once did regularly at an annual gathering in Kentucky, but he can still talk about a missed putt or a great drive with his sons. And, like so many Reds fans on the west side of Cincinnati, he can easily share in the season’s frustrations with family and friends.

To anyone considering exploring available technology, Lou offers simple encouragement: “You go try it out. You’ll never regret it.”

Sense of Belonging

Socialization is a core value at Traditions. Alongside physical care, it is one of the most important things our communities offer. Isolation, whether caused by age or vision loss, can contribute to mental health and cognitive decline. Keeping residents connected to each other and to the world around them fosters a strong sense of belonging. 

Wrap Up 

As Lou’s T-shirt says, “It Took Me 90 Years to Look This Good.” We hope the moments of kindness that helped connect him with Vision Buddy and the sense of home he has found at Traditions at North Bend continue to remind him that he belongs. 

Ready to meet interesting folks like Lou? Schedule a tour of Traditions at North Bend today!