Using Blocking to make reading easier

There is a strategy to help low vision patients have an easier time reading called Blocking. Blocking removes distracting text or images. This allows the eyes to focus on relevant text and aids in tracking when reading. This is how it is done. It starts with using colored construction paper that fits the width of the paper. A window is then cut in the paper big enough to see a row of text.  The patient then simply moves the paper with the window down to the line of text s/he wants to read. All the other text will be blocked out allowing the patient to focus on reading that line. The patient then moves the blocker from line to line as s/he reads.

Thank you to Katina Lawdis, one of our occupational therapists, for this lesson.